Mikel Arteta provides Ben White update after Chelsea loss

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta does not expect Ben White to be fit for next weekend's clash with Manchester City.

Reports emerged on Saturday evening claiming that the £50m signing did not report for training on Friday due to a positive coronavirus test, and Gooners' fears were confirmed when the club revealed that he was indeed COVID-positive.

Rob Holding and Pablo Mari struggled to deal with the presence of Romelu Lukaku during a 2-0 win for Chelsea on Sunday, and Arteta has not been able to offer a positive update on White's condition following the encounter.

When asked if White would be available to face the champions in gameweek three during his post-match press conference, Arteta responded: "I don't think so no."

The Spaniard also issued updates on Kieran Tierney and Gabriel Martinelli after both men were forced off in the defeat, saying: "KT had an issue with his quad and Gabi was cramping."

Arsenal remain pointless and goalless in the 2021-22 Premier League season and now gear up for an EFL Cup clash with West Bromwich Albion in midweek.