Martin Ødegaard has faced criticism for his performances in recent months, with expectations growing around his role as Arsenal captain. The midfielder endured a difficult campaign last season, and his form has been highlighted as one of the factors that may have prevented the Gunners from securing the league title. Having finished second once again, many observers felt that stronger leadership on the pitch could have made the difference.
As Arsenal begin a new season, Ødegaard is determined to demonstrate improvement and reaffirm his position as a central figure in the team. However, prior to the opening fixture, questions were raised about whether he should continue as captain. Club legend Tony Adams publicly suggested that Declan Rice would be better suited to leading the side, further fuelling debate around Ødegaard’s leadership credentials.
Players Back Ødegaard
In response, Mikel Arteta moved to clarify the situation by involving the squad in a decisive process. The Arsenal manager called for a vote among the players to establish whether Ødegaard retained their backing as captain. According to TV2, the outcome was overwhelmingly in his favour.
Arteta explained, “My opinion is clear, and it’s not just my opinion. It’s the support staff and especially the players. I asked them to vote for the captain, and I got the result yesterday. And by a big, big margin – 100,000 – everyone chose the same person, and that’s Martin Ødegaard.
“That’s the clearest signal you can get. That’s how they feel about who’s going to be their captain and help them defend, improve and win the games we want to win. So there’s no question about that.”
A Season to Prove Himself
These remarks confirm the trust placed in Ødegaard by both his teammates and the coaching staff, despite external criticism. The decision also demonstrates Arteta’s commitment to maintaining stability and unity within the dressing room as the team seeks to end its long wait for silverware.
For Ødegaard, the vote of confidence offers both reassurance and responsibility. He now carries the backing of the squad but must deliver performances that justify their faith. As Arsenal enter another demanding season, the captain will be under scrutiny to ensure that his influence extends beyond leadership and into the decisive moments that determine whether trophies are finally secured.