🚨🗣 “I have faced prominent defenders such as Van Dijk and Ruben Dias in the past; however, I must admit that I have never encountered a defender as formidable as he is.” Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has disclosed the one Arsenal player who posed a significant challenge for him yesterday—not Saliba and not Gabriel.

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak has built a reputation for his technical ability, pace, and clinical finishing, regularly going head-to-head with some of the best defenders in the Premier League. However, after his latest clash with Arsenal, the Swedish forward admitted that he encountered a defender unlike any he had faced before. Surprisingly, it wasn’t William Saliba or Gabriel Magalhães who gave him the most trouble—it was another Arsenal player who completely nullified his attacking presence.

Speaking after the match, Isak was candid in his assessment of Arsenal’s defensive strength. “I’ve played against world-class defenders before—Van Dijk, Ruben Dias, and many others—but yesterday, I came up against someone who was just on another level,” he said. His revelation left many surprised, as fans naturally expected him to name Saliba or Gabriel, who have been Arsenal’s standout defenders this season.

Instead, Isak pointed to an unexpected name—Ben White. The versatile Arsenal defender, who has been playing as a right-back in Mikel Arteta’s system, was the player who made life miserable for the Newcastle striker throughout the game. White’s defensive awareness, physicality, and composure in duels ensured that Isak was unable to find the spaces he typically exploits.

“Ben White was relentless,” Isak admitted. “I tried different movements, switching sides, dropping deep, but he was always there. He’s strong, quick, and intelligent—he reads the game so well. It was frustrating because every time I thought I had an opening, he shut it down immediately.”

White’s performance wasn’t just about his defensive solidity; he also contributed significantly to Arsenal’s attacking transitions. His ability to progress the ball forward, link up with wingers, and provide width on the right made him one of the most impactful players on the pitch.

For Arsenal fans, White’s display was another reminder of his evolution under Arteta. Originally signed as a center-back, White has seamlessly transitioned into a full-back role, bringing a unique blend of defensive resilience and technical proficiency. His adaptability has been crucial in Arsenal’s push for Premier League success this season.

Many analysts had expected Saliba and Gabriel to be the ones to dominate Isak, given their imposing physicality and aerial prowess. However, it was White’s anticipation, discipline, and positional awareness that truly frustrated the Newcastle forward. Arteta’s tactical setup ensured that Isak was constantly isolated, limiting his ability to link up with teammates or exploit spaces behind the defensive line.

This is not the first time White has put in a commanding performance against top forwards. He has regularly silenced some of the Premier League’s most dangerous attackers, showing why he is one of the most underrated defenders in English football. His consistency has made him a key figure in Arsenal’s defensive setup, and performances like this only reinforce his importance to the team.

Newcastle’s struggles against Arsenal highlighted their difficulty in breaking down well-organized defenses. Isak, usually a potent attacking threat, was kept quiet throughout the match, a testament to Arsenal’s tactical discipline and White’s defensive masterclass.

As Arsenal continue their pursuit of silverware, having players like White who can step up in crucial moments will be vital. His ability to neutralize top forwards and contribute offensively gives Arteta a valuable asset in his defensive lineup.

Isak’s comments have sparked discussions among fans and pundits, with many now recognizing White’s defensive qualities even more. While Saliba and Gabriel often get the headlines, White’s impact cannot be overlooked.

For Newcastle, this match served as a reality check. Despite their attacking potential, they struggled to break down Arsenal’s resolute defense, and Isak’s difficulties against White summed up their frustrating evening.

Moving forward, Arteta will undoubtedly be pleased with how his defense handled one of the Premier League’s most promising strikers. With White in top form, Arsenal’s backline looks more solid than ever, and performances like this only strengthen their credentials as genuine title contenders.