Ben White returns as Arsenal name strong XI for Leverkusen clash

Ben White returns to Arsenal’s starting lineup for tonight’s crucial Champions League Round of 16 second leg against Bayer Leverkusen, as the Gunners look to overturn a 1-1 first leg deficit at home.

The England defender has been handed his first start in several matches, partnering with Bukayo Saka down the right flank as Mikel Arteta opts for experience in the knockout stages. White’s return comes at a crucial time, with Arsenal needing to find the net against the German champions to progress to the quarter-finals.

Trossard back in the fold

Leandro Trossard also returns to the starting eleven after missing recent action, adding to Arsenal’s attacking options alongside Saka and Viktor Gyokeres. The Belgian’s technical ability and versatility could prove crucial against Leverkusen’s well-organized defensive setup.

Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice anchor the midfield, with Crystal Palace loanee Eberechi Eze providing creativity from the number 10 position. The back four sees Piero Hincapie at left-back, with William Saliba and Gabriel forming the central defensive partnership ahead of David Raya.

Strong options from the bench

Arteta has plenty of firepower available as substitutes, with Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Noni Madueke all ready to make an impact. Gabriel Jesus also features among the substitutes, along with academy prospect Ethan Dowman who has been making waves in recent weeks.

Leverkusen have named an unchanged lineup from the first leg, suggesting Xabi Alonso is confident in the system that nearly secured victory at the BayArena. The German side will be hoping to frustrate Arsenal and potentially catch them on the counter-attack.

According to Arseblog, the match kicks off this evening with Arsenal needing at least a 1-0 victory to progress, or a score draw if they can find two goals.

The return of White could provide the attacking impetus Arsenal need down the right flank, with his overlapping runs and delivery from wide areas offering a different dimension to their play. His partnership with Saka has been productive in the past, and tonight’s European knockout clash could be the perfect stage for their reunion.

With the quarter-finals beckoning, Arsenal will be hoping their experienced campaigners can deliver when it matters most against the reigning Bundesliga champions.