FOOTBALL
Posted on February 16, 2026 10:00 pm | Updated on February 16, 2026 9:14 pm
Martin Ødegaard is Arsenal’s captain and one of their biggest stars. But shocking reports say he has told his agent to open talks with Manchester United. The Norwegian playmaker could be heading for a summer exit. At the same time, England star Declan Rice has been named as the likely new Arsenal captain. This news has surprised many fans.
Big Rumour Shakes Arsenal
The story broke on social media this week. The reliable-sounding accounts claim Ødegaard feels “deeply unappreciated” at Arsenal. He believes the board and coaches have broken promises to him. There is also high tension with manager Mikel Arteta. One post said the 27-year-old is now “100 per cent willing to leave” the club.
Martin Ødegaard joined Arsenal from Real Madrid in 2021. He quickly became a hero with his clever passes and goals. In 2022 he was made captain. The fans love his leadership and skill. But this season has been different. He has started only a few full games and has just one goal and four assists in 19 Premier League matches. He has been left on the bench many times by Arteta.
Why Odegaard Wants to Leave
The reports say Martin Ødegaard feels undervalued. Arsenal’s style this year focuses more on strong defence, set-pieces and crosses. His creative passing is not used as much. He recently picked up a knee injury against Brentford. In the club programme he said: “I picked up a bit of an injury… thankfully it looks like it’s not too bad.” But he could miss the next few games.
🚨 BREAKING : Martin Ødegaard has opened the door to a summer exit after asking his agent to begin talks with Manchester United.
The midfielder feels undervalued at Arsenal and is now ready to leave, with tensions reported between him and Mikel Arteta.
Bayern Munich are keen,… pic.twitter.com/J8ieMzQ4BI
— MatchDay Central (@MatchDCentral) February 15, 2026
Manchester United in Pole Position
Manchester United have come out as the favourite destination. Martin Ødegaard wants to stay in the Premier League. Bayern Munich are also keen on him, but he would only go to Germany for a huge offer. A move to Old Trafford would be massive – just like when Arsenal legend Robin van Persie joined United in 2012.
United need a creative midfielder. Their captain Bruno Fernandes has shone this season, but the club could still make a big signing. Ødegaard’s contract runs until 2028, so Arsenal would demand a lot of money – maybe £70 million or more. Selling their captain to a rival would be very hard for the fans to accept.
Declan Rice Named Likely New Captain
If Ødegaard leaves, who will wear the armband? Reports point to Declan Rice. The 26-year-old joined Arsenal from West Ham in 2023 for £105 million. He is strong, talks a lot on the pitch and leads by example. Many people already see him as a future leader.
One social media post said: “Declan Rice is likely to be the new Arsenal captain next season.” Arsenal fans like Rice a lot. He has helped the team fight for the title. Making him captain would keep the dressing room strong even without Ødegaard.
BREAKING : Arsenal are talking with their captain Martin Ødegaard about his future at the club.
Ødegaard could leave Arsenal to look for a new challenge.
Midfielder Declan Rice is expected to become the new Arsenal captain next season. pic.twitter.com/kmHfNKasCr
— Sports Flash (@Sportsflash_ke) February 16, 2026
Arsenal Still Chasing Big Trophies
This news comes at a great time for Arsenal on the pitch. They sit four points clear at the top of the Premier League. They beat Wigan 4-0 in the FA Cup fourth round. Moreover, they are in the League Cup final and through to the Champions League last 16. A “quadruple” is still possible – something no big English club has done in the modern era.
But injuries are a worry again. Ødegaard is sidelined. Other key players have missed games too. Arteta needs everyone fit for tough matches against Wolves, Tottenham and more.
What Happens Next?
Arsenal are in their best position for years. This rumour adds extra drama to an exciting season. Everyone will watch closely to see what happens with their captain.
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