Ben White continues to face criticism from some England supporters following his departure from the national team’s camp during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Despite the time that has passed since the incident, some fans remain unhappy with the defender, who has continued to focus on his club career with Arsenal.

One of the reported reasons behind his departure was a disagreement with an England coach. The incident was said to have involved a joke about White not watching football at home, something that reportedly contributed to tensions within the camp.

White has previously made it clear that he does not follow football closely outside his professional responsibilities. He has explained that playing for Arsenal is his job, but he does not feel the need to spend his free time watching the sport to be successful at it.

White explains his relationship with football

The defender remains an important player at club level and has continued to demonstrate his quality whenever called upon. His performances have also kept him in contention for England, with Thomas Tuchel showing confidence in his abilities.

White is keen to continue representing his country under the new manager, despite the criticism he has received from some supporters. His attitude towards watching football, however, has not changed, and he insists that not following the sport outside work should not be mistaken for disliking it.

The Arsenal defender recently addressed the subject in an interview, explaining why he prefers to switch off from football when he is away from the pitch. Speaking via ESPN, he said:

“To be fair, I don’t. I don’t know if I actually said I don’t like it because people say I don’t like football, which is obviously not true.

“It’s because I don’t watch it, which I think is quite normal for someone who does a job and then doesn’t go home and then continue watching that job.

“But I think it’s my way of release from the game because it’s so intense, obviously.”

Arsenal defender maintains his position

White’s explanation makes clear that his lack of interest in watching matches during his free time is about separating his professional life from his personal time. He does not hate football, but prefers not to make it part of every aspect of his day.

His approach has not stopped him from reaching a high level in the game. White remains focused on performing for Arsenal and hopes to continue contributing to England under Tuchel, regardless of the criticism surrounding his previous departure.