Ben White Praises Arsenal’s Strong Start and Eyes Revenge Against Aston Villa
Ben White expressed his delight at Arsenal’s “amazing start” to the 2024-25 Premier League campaign following their 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium last weekend.
White emphasised the importance of focusing on themselves, stating that if Mikel Arteta’s side continues to replicate their training performances on the pitch, they can compete with any team in the English top flight.
“It was an amazing start for us to win and get back into the flow of things, starting where we left off last season,” White said as Arsenal.com quoted. “It’s always tough in the first game. You’re seeing where you are, the level you’ve been training at, and playing a game gives you the reassurance that you’re doing the right thing.
“We’re not worried about anyone else, what they’re doing, or sending messages. We’ve got to continue to do what we’ve been doing and reach higher levels as a team. If we play the way we can, we’ll beat anyone.”
As Arsenal prepare to take on Aston Villa this weekend, White anticipates an intense match at Villa Park, considering last season's losses to Unai Emery’s side, both home and away. The 2-0 defeat on April 14 at the Emirates Stadium was particularly disappointing for the Gunners, as many felt it contributed significantly to their failure to win the title.
“We need to put that right and get that result this time,” White said. “I’m sure we’ll do that and prepare well for it. They’re all big games, no matter who you play against. The points you drop anywhere in the season, you can put it back to that.
“There are games that we drew that we should’ve won and they’re two points that we should pick up. It’s always a tough game when you get there. There are a lot of duels, it’s very aggressive. They’re very quick and want to play on the counter, so we’ve got to be ready for that.”
On summer signing Riccardo Calafiori, who has strengthened Arsenal’s defence, White had high praise. “He’s amazing. He’s fit right in and is doing well. He’s been training with us for a few weeks and has settled well. He’s strong, big, aggressive, and a very front-foot defender. He gives us a different type of fullback, so it’s good for everyone to compete and bring up the levels for everyone.”
White also highlighted the collective effort required for Arsenal's defensive strength. “When you see the defensive record, you just look at the back four and the goalie, but it’s much bigger than that.
“Most of the attacking players have a massive part to play in it. Most of the time the ball doesn’t even get back to us because of the high press and the attackers doing so well for us.”
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