Ben White Back in England Squad: Tuchel Snubs Alexander-Arnold for Friendlies

England manager Thomas Tuchel has recalled Arsenal right-back Ben White to the national team for upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, marking the conclude of a near four-year international exile for the 28-year-old.

White’s inclusion in the 35-man squad follows a left thigh muscle injury to Bayer Leverkusen’s Jarell Quansah, creating an opening in Tuchel’s defensive options. The call-up is particularly notable given White’s self-imposed absence from the England setup since March 2022, when he left the team’s camp during a match against Ivory Coast citing personal reasons. Reports at the time suggested a falling out with the previous coaching staff, led by Gareth Southgate.

Tuchel, who took charge of the national team in late 2024, has publicly expressed his desire to involve White since his appointment. However, injury problems have previously prevented the manager from doing so. “I know it’s a tough one,” Tuchel said when questioned about omitting Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold from the squad. “I know (Alexander-Arnold) is a big name. I think that he’s a huge talent with a big career, but I feel like I know what Trent can give us and decided to still to stick to the players who were in camp with us.”

Alexander-Arnold, who has played only once under Tuchel, was again overlooked despite being a regular starter for Real Madrid. Tuchel defended his decision, stating it was based on the existing relationships and performances within the squad rather than a judgment of Alexander-Arnold’s capabilities. “We see more the evidence that we have that we were good in September, October, November, than it has anything to do with what Trent can not offer,” Tuchel explained. “I know remarkably well what Trent can offer us. I played many times against him and suffered, and suffered when he played against us against my teams with Liverpool. So, I know very well about his strengths and what he can give.”

Alongside White’s return, Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes has also been added to the squad following an injury to Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze. Barnes, who has 14 goals across all competitions this season for Newcastle, was previously hoping to be selected for the Scotland national team. Tuchel also acknowledged the depth available at right-back, despite the absence of the injured Reece James.

White has four senior England caps, but has not featured for the national team since the match against Ivory Coast in March 2022. He has started only five Premier League matches for Arsenal this season.