When you’ve been at the heart of a title-chasing side for three straight seasons, criticism comes with the territory.
That’s the reality for Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, who has made it clear he isn’t losing sleep over doubts about whether he’s the right man to wear the armband.
A Leader Since 2022
Odegaard, now 26, stepped into the captaincy in 2022 after the exits of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.
Since then, he has guided the Gunners through three strong Premier League campaigns, even if the ultimate prize has slipped just out of reach.
On the pitch, his numbers speak for themselves—26 goals and 26 assists in the league over the past three years.
The Critics Weigh In
Despite his influence, some believe Odegaard isn’t the ideal choice to lead Arsenal.
Among them is former skipper Tony Adams, who recently argued that Declan Rice should take over the captaincy.
Adams suggested that Rice’s presence could give Arsenal a sturdier foundation and free Odegaard to focus more on his creative game.
Odegaard’s No-Nonsense Response
Asked about Adams’ comments while on international duty, Odegaard brushed off the speculation with a calm shrug:
“I don’t care that much, to be honest. Everyone can have their opinion and say what they want.
I can’t let it affect me. That’s how I’ve always thought throughout my career.”
For him, outside noise—whether positive or negative—isn’t something worth dwelling on.
Adams’ Case for Rice
At an event last month, Adams explained his reasoning:
“Every now and again as a manager, you have to put someone in who reflects you, reflects the club, and can take the team to the next level.
Declan is my kind of captain. He’ll play every game and lay the foundations for a title-winning side.
Odegaard can’t do that—come on Arteta, make him captain.”
Arteta and Players Back Their Skipper
But inside the Arsenal camp, Odegaard’s position is secure.
Ahead of this season, Mikel Arteta held a players’ vote to confirm the captain, and Odegaard won comfortably.
Arteta stressed that it wasn’t just his view, but also the overwhelming choice of the squad and staff.
“By a mile, by a big, big 100 miles, everybody chose Martin.
That’s the clearest sign of who they trust to lead them.”
Odegaard’s Take on the Vote
For the Norwegian, that vote was a welcome boost, even if he knows the final call always rests with the manager:
“We voted for it. Ultimately, it was his choice anyway.
But it was a nice confirmation for me.”
Looking Ahead to Forest
With two wins from their opening three matches, Arsenal will be hoping to build more momentum when they return to Premier League action against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
Odegaard, captaincy debate or not, will once again be central to the Gunners’ push.