In a moment that has stirred intense debate across the football world, former Manchester United defender and respected pundit Rio Ferdinand has made a bold and controversial call regarding Arsenal’s leadership..
Speaking during a recent press conference appearance, Ferdinand didn’t mince his words as he demanded Mikel Arteta remove Martin Ødegaard from the captaincy role — a move that has sparked reactions from all corners of the football community.
> “Take the armband off him now,” Ferdinand declared. “He’s not captain material. I just don’t understand how he got that responsibility to begin with.”
The remarks, sharp and unexpected, have rippled through the Arsenal fanbase, particularly given Ødegaard’s status as a key component in Arteta’s project.
Since being named captain, the Norwegian midfielder has often led by example with his work ethic, calm demeanor, and tactical intelligence.
However, a recent slump in his performances — particularly during the critical stages of Arsenal’s Champions League campaign — has raised concerns among pundits and fans alike.
While some anticipated Ferdinand might advocate for popular dressing room figures like Bukayo Saka or goalkeeper David Raya to take on the captain’s duties, the former England international instead threw his full support behind midfielder Declan Rice.
> “Declan Rice is the real leader in that squad,” Ferdinand explained. “He’s vocal, he’s commanding, and he delivers when it matters most. He’s not one to shy away under pressure — and that’s what a true captain does.”
Ferdinand was quick to emphasize that his criticism of Ødegaard wasn’t personal, but rather focused on the intangible qualities a captain must embody — especially when the pressure is on.
According to him, Arsenal have been missing a commanding voice and strong personality on the pitch during crunch moments, something he believes Rice naturally provides.
Still, many Arsenal supporters and analysts have rushed to defend Ødegaard.
They argue that his quiet but consistent leadership has been instrumental in the team’s progress over the past two seasons.
Many fans took to social media to voice their displeasure at Ferdinand’s remarks, with one stating, “Yes, Ødegaard hasn’t been great recently, but he’s shown so much loyalty and intelligence in his role.
You don’t just discard a captain because of a bad run.”
With the Gunners preparing for a massive Champions League semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain, the timing of this debate could either prove to be a galvanizing force or an unwelcome distraction.
Whether Arteta remains loyal to Ødegaard or considers a leadership shake-up in favor of Rice, the spotlight on Arsenal’s captaincy has never been more intense.
