Arsenal legend Tony Adams has made a bold demand ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season — telling Mikel Arteta to remove Martin Odegaard as captain and give the role to Declan Rice.
Speaking at an event hosted by Irish Independent Sport, the four-time league title winner insisted that Rice has the leadership qualities needed to finally drive Arsenal to the Premier League crown.
Adams’ comments come just days before Arsenal kick off their campaign with a daunting away trip to Manchester United at Old Trafford, the start of a punishing run that includes matches against Liverpool, Manchester City, and Newcastle United.
“You’re Not Going to Win the League with Odegaard as Captain”
Adams didn’t hold back in his assessment of the Norwegian skipper.
“The call is to make Declan Rice the captain. I think Declan is my kind of captain, and it might free Odegaard up to play with a bit more freedom. You’re not going to win the league with Odegaard as captain.” — Tony Adams
He argued that Rice’s ever-present role and mentality make him the ideal figure to “lay the foundations of a title-winning team” and reflect the values Arteta wants on the pitch.
Adams Doubles Down on Rice Praise
The former Gunners skipper went further, saying Rice could be an even better captain than Arteta was during his own playing days.
“He’s got an opportunity this year to actually turn into a winner. Declan Rice can do that, Odegaard can’t. Come on Arteta, make him captain.” — Tony Adams
Adams believes making the switch now could set the tone for a season where Arsenal push Manchester City all the way.
Odegaard vs Rice: Leadership and Role
| Player | 2024/25 Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Martin Odegaard | 47 | 14 | 8 |
| Declan Rice | 49 | 6 | 6 |
Odegaard contributed heavily in the final third last season, while Rice’s influence was more about control, protection, and driving the team forward from deep.
Analyst Verdict
Adams’ comments are bound to spark debate among Arsenal fans. Odegaard has been a consistent performer and a key creative force, but Rice’s leadership, physical presence, and durability offer a different kind of captaincy profile.
From a tactical perspective, giving Rice the armband could allow Odegaard to play with greater attacking freedom — but it would also risk unsettling a dressing room harmony Arteta has carefully built.
Key Insights
- Tony Adams wants Rice to replace Odegaard as captain.
- Claims Arsenal “won’t win the league” with Odegaard wearing the armband.
- Suggests the change would free Odegaard creatively.
- Rice praised for mentality, consistency, and leadership traits.
- Decision comes before Arsenal’s toughest opening run in years.
What’s Next
Arteta is unlikely to make such a drastic change days before the season opener, but the captaincy debate could resurface if Arsenal struggle early on.
With Rice set to play a central role in midfield, any standout performances in these high-pressure matches could further fuel calls for him to take on the captaincy permanently.
Should Arsenal stick with Odegaard — or give Rice the armband to lead a title charge?
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