Ben White out for the season — right back crisis is real
This is the one that hurts. Ben White picked up an injury against West Ham and won't play again this season (5). That means Arsenal go into the Champions League final against PSG without their two first-choice right backs. Jurrien Timber is already out and also expected to miss the final (5). Arteta has a serious problem to solve at the back before the biggest game in years.
VAR drama: how Arsenal kept their 1–0 win over West Ham
Arsenal beat West Ham 1–0 at the London Stadium, with Trossard's winner holding up after one of the most debated VAR calls of the season. Callum Wilson thought he had equalised late on, but the goal was ruled out for Pablo's foul on David Raya (3). PGMOL chief Howard Webb backed the decision, calling the foul "clear and obvious" (3). The audio released this week showed the review took time and could have gone the other way (4) — but it didn't, and Arsenal got the three points.
Julian Alvarez: Arsenal pushing hard, Barcelona rattled
Arsenal are serious about signing Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid this summer (6). Barcelona also want him, but Arsenal are positioning themselves as the frontrunners (6). Nothing is done yet, and no fee or personal terms have been reported — but the interest is real and the competition is stiff.
Selina Cerci leaving Hoffenheim — Arsenal link emerging
On the women's side, German international Selina Cerci is leaving Hoffenheim when her contract expires at the end of June (1). Reports suggest she is in contact with a top English club (1). Nothing confirmed, but Arsenal Women are among the obvious candidates.
Max Dowman wins Premier League homegrown award
Academy striker Max Dowman has won the Premier League homegrown player award (2). Good recognition for a young Gunner making his way through the system.
Fan reactions
The West Ham VAR call is dominating the r/Gunners thread this morning. Most fans are relieved rather than triumphant — there is a clear awareness that it was a close call, and the mic'd-up audio release has only added fuel to the debate. The bench cam of Arteta's reaction to Trossard's winner is getting plenty of love too — a rare glimpse of the manager fully letting go.