13 Outstanding Facts About Ben White From Childhood
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13 Outstanding Facts About Ben White From Childhood

Updated: 2 days ago

Full Name: Ben William White

Date of Birth: 8 October 1997

Place of Birth: Poole, England

Height: 6 ft 1 in (1.86 m)

Position: Right-Back / Centre-Half

Current Team: Arsenal

Jersey Number: 4



In the realm of football, certain players possess pivotal attributes that have sculpted their journey from a precocious youngster to a celebrated icon in the Illustrious arenas of the Premier League.

Among these luminaries shines Ben White, whose journey, from the playgrounds where his passion ignited in the small town of Poole to the grand stages of the English top flight with Arsenal, has been nothing short of extraordinary. As we step into the depths of his past, tracing the footsteps of his childhood dreams to the pinnacle of stardom in the English top flight, we uncover thirteen outstanding facts that illuminate the trajectory of Ben's ascent.



Parents and Family Support

Ben White's journey in football has been profoundly influenced by his family's steadfast support and encouragement. Despite lacking any prior involvement in the sport, his parents Barry and Carole White recognised his passion from a young age and provided the support he needed. They never held him back or suggested he pursue a different path. Attending matches and training sessions, nurtured his talent and instilled in him a strong work ethic. However, most of his drive also came from within, as Ben himself exhibited an innate determination and commitment to excel in football.


Below Are The 13 Interesting Career Facts About Ben White From Childhood

1. His Early Football Beginnings Started at Southampton

Ben White's journey in football began at Southampton's Academy at the tender age of 8, where his burgeoning talent began to emerge. His formative years were characterised by unwavering dedication and an innate passion for the game.


2. The Saints Released Him

Despite spending eight formative years at Southampton's Academy, Ben faced the disappointment of being released at the age of 16. However, this setback only fueled his determination to succeed in the sport.



3. He Made His Senior Debut at Age 17

Ben White made his senior debut at age 17 on the 9th of August 2016, demonstrating his talent and earning recognition for his skills on the field. He signed his first professional contract at the same age, marking a significant milestone in his career. Notable highlights of Ben's career include being named Brighton's Player of the Season.

4. He Does Not Watch Football During His Free Time

Unlike many footballers, White doesn't spend his free time watching football matches. He enjoys playing football more than watching it, a passion he developed despite his family's lack of prior involvement in the sport.


5. He Had Several Loan Spells

Ben has undergone several loan spells throughout his career, gaining valuable experience and evolving as a player in diverse settings. His belief in his professional football potential burgeoned following his initial loan stint at Newport, where he made 42 appearances. Initially inspired by Lewis Dunk, his teammate at Brighton and Hove Albion, Ben later went on to have loan spells at Peterborough United in 2019, where he made 15 appearances, and Leeds United in 2019–2020, where he made 46 appearances.



6. His First Career Goal was for Newport

Ben's inaugural career goal occurred during his loan stint at Newport, marking a memorable moment that showcased his versatility and offensive prowess. He netted the opening goal of the match against Barnet at home in the 73rd minute. However, goals from John Akinde (88') and Shaquile Coulthirst (90') secured a 2–1 victory for the visiting club.

7. His Breakthrough Season Came in 2020–21

Amidst swirling rumours about his future, the 2020–21 season marked a significant breakthrough for Ben White as he demonstrated exceptional performance on the field, solidifying his position as a pivotal player for his team. Just before the campaign resumed, the speculation was swiftly dispelled when the Seagulls awarded him a new contract, underscoring their desire for him to remain with the club at the time.



8. He Can Play As a Centre-Back or Right-Back

Known for his versatility, Ben White is capable of playing as both a centre-back and a right-back, offering flexibility and depth to his team's defensive lineup. He has adapted well to his role as a right-back under Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

9. He Has Played in all Four Professional English Leagues

White's football journey has traversed all four professional English leagues [FA Premier League. Level 2: EFL Championship. Level 3: EFL League One. Level 4: EFL League Two], spanning from the youth ranks at Southampton and Brighton's academy to his professional career.



His loan spells at Newport County, Peterborough United, and Leeds United were crucial developmental stages, showcasing his adaptability and skill. The transition to Arsenal marked another chapter, where White has continued to evolve, demonstrating versatility as already stated by playing both as a centre-back and a right-back.



10. He Won the Championship with Leeds United.

Ben White's time with Leeds United culminated in a remarkable achievement as he played a vital role in helping the team secure the Championship title. Amidst intense competition and gruelling matches, White's contributions on the field were invaluable. His presence in the team bolstered their defensive line and provided stability during crucial moments throughout the season. With his versatility and tactical understanding, White played an integral part in Leeds' successful campaign, earning recognition and admiration from teammates, coaches, and fans.

11. He Scored Arsenal's Historic 10,000th Goal

Ben White immortalised himself in Arsenal's history by netting the club's momentous 10,000th goal on March 4, 2024, during a decisive 6-0 victory against Sheffield United in the Premier League. Alongside Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Declan Rice, Ben White contributed to the scoring frenzy, sealing the game with the final goal in the 58th minute.



12. His Father, Barry White, Used To Be a Gardener

Before pursuing his football career, Ben's father, Barry, worked as a gardener—a profession that has deeply influenced Ben's upbringing and perspective on life. Ben himself acknowledges this connection, stating to Arsenal.com: 'I’d probably be working with my dad if I wasn’t a footballer. He used to be a gardener. I think that’s why there was never any pressure on me growing up because I would have been very happy with that.' This insight sheds light on the supportive environment Ben experienced during his formative years, where there was an absence of pressure to follow a specific path.

13. He is Arsenal's 3rd Player with Most Wins in First 100 PL Matches

On the 6th of April 2024, Ben White reached his 100th Premier League appearance milestone for Arsenal [in a 3-0 win against his former club Brighton], boasting victories in 66 of those matches. Among the Gunners, only Sol Campbell and Lauren, with 68 wins each, have achieved more victories in their initial 100 appearances in the competition.



Bonus - He is Married to his Long-term Girlfriend Milly Adams

Ben White tied the knot with his longtime partner, Milly Adams, in 2023, as they joyfully announced on Instagram in May of that year. Their journey to matrimony began after White proposed to Adams during a holiday following the start of their relationship in 2022, documenting their commitment with matching 'I love you' wrist tattoos on social media.

Milly Adams, 26, originally from Hertfordshire, is a model who graduated from Nottingham Trent University in 2019. Their wedding date, May 21, 2023, was disclosed by White himself in an Instagram post. The couple delightedly shared glimpses of their wedding ceremony, capturing moments of their affectionate exchange and blissful stroll together.



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