Tony Adams Calls for Leadership Shake-Up at Arsenal as Title Race Looms
As Arsenal prepare for another intense Premier League title challenge, club legend Tony Adams has made waves with a bold suggestion: strip Martin Ødegaard of the captain’s armband and hand it to Declan Rice. The former Gunners skipper believes a change in leadership could be the key to transforming Mikel Arteta’s side into genuine champions.
Adams Questions Ødegaard’s Leadership Credentials
Ødegaard, who was appointed captain ahead of the 2022/23 season, has often been lauded for his technical ability and vision. However, Adams, who led Arsenal through one of their most successful eras, isn’t convinced the Norwegian possesses the grit and presence needed to lift a Premier League trophy.
“Sometimes, as a manager, you need a captain who truly reflects the identity of the club and can take you to that next level,” Adams said in an interview with Indo Sport Football. “If Arteta wants to become a title-winning manager like Klopp or Ferguson, he needs to make big calls—and that starts with the armband.”
Adams didn’t mince words, claiming that Ødegaard lacks the leadership qualities and drive to lead Arsenal to glory, especially in high-stakes fixtures where his influence has, at times, been questioned.
Declan Rice Backed as Arsenal’s Natural Leader
Instead, Adams threw his full support behind Declan Rice, describing the England midfielder as a “natural captain” and the kind of figure who can lay the foundations of a championship-winning squad.
“You’ve got a player like Declan who will feature in every game, who rallies the team, leads by example, and sets standards. That’s exactly what Arsenal need,” said Adams. “It’s time for Arteta to be brave. If he wants to win the Premier League, Rice has to be captain.”
The 26-year-old Rice joined Arsenal last summer from West Ham in a high-profile move and has quickly established himself as a fan favorite and midfield anchor.
Ødegaard Under Growing Pressure Ahead of New Season
Adams’ comments come amid increasing scrutiny of Ødegaard’s form. Former England striker Darren Bent added fuel to the fire, suggesting that the Norwegian’s place in the starting XI may not be guaranteed much longer—particularly if Arsenal sign Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze.
Bent noted a significant drop-off in Ødegaard’s performance post-injury last season, highlighting his modest tally of six goals and 11 assists in all competitions. “It wasn’t good enough,” Bent said. “He hasn’t looked like the same player we saw two seasons ago. Even in pre-season, he’s been underwhelming.”
He also pointed to rising star Ethan Nwaneri as a potential long-term replacement, and emphasized that Ødegaard must respond quickly or risk being overtaken.
Could Eze Signing Spell Trouble for Ødegaard?
Should Arsenal complete a move for Eze—who is capable of playing both as a No. 10 and off the left flank—it would create direct competition for Ødegaard. According to Bent, this could finally give the current captain the push he needs, noting that “he’s not really being challenged at the moment.”
A move for Eze would not only add creative depth but also increase internal pressure on Ødegaard to rediscover his best form.
A Defining Season for Arsenal and Arteta
With the 2025/26 campaign fast approaching, all eyes will be on Arteta and the decisions he makes regarding team leadership. Will he stick by Ødegaard, or take Adams’ advice and usher in a new captain to guide Arsenal’s title ambitions?
One thing is certain: expectations are sky-high at the Emirates, and the margin for error is shrinking fast.
