"Arteta has a big decision to make this season, and he hasn't made it yet. It's giving the captaincy to Rice," the British newspaper Sportmail quoted Adams as saying on 14/8. "Rice is my kind of leader, and this could allow Odegaard to play with more freedom."

Martin Odegaard (left) speaks with Declan Rice during Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Real Madrid at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 8/4/2025. *Photo: Arsenal FC*

Odegaard joined Arsenal on loan from Real Madrid in January 2021 and was later signed permanently for USD 41 million. The Norwegian midfielder has scored 41 goals and provided 41 assists in 198 appearances across all competitions.

Following the departures of Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Odegaard was named captain for the 2022-2023 season but has yet to lead Arsenal to a major trophy. The Gunners have finished second in the Premier League for the past three seasons, twice behind Man City and once behind Liverpool.

"Sometimes, a manager has to choose someone who reflects his and the club's spirit, someone who can elevate the team," Adams added.

When asked if Rice reflected Arteta's style, the former England center-back replied: "I think Rice is more than Arteta. Arteta has a chance to be a champion this season. But to win, you have to be like Jurgen Klopp or Sir Alex Ferguson – lead by example, show a winning mentality, and that is reflected in your captain."

Adams cited Jordan Henderson's captaincy at Liverpool under Klopp during their 2019-2020 Premier League title win. Henderson is known for his organizational skills, tactical discipline, and passionate play. That season, Liverpool finished with 99 points, 18 ahead of Man City, ending a 30-year league title drought.

Ferguson led Man Utd to 13 Premier League titles with various captains, including Steve Bruce (1992-1993, 1993-1994), Eric Cantona (1995-1996, 1996-1997), Roy Keane (1998-1999, 1999-2000, 2000-2001, 2002-2003), Gary Neville (2006-2007, 2007-2008, 2008-2009), and Nemanja Vidic (2010-2011, 2012-2013).

According to Adams, Rice possesses the qualities of a title-winning captain: durability, availability throughout the season, and the ability to motivate teammates. He believes the English midfielder can build the foundation for a team capable of winning trophies.

"You have a player who will play every game, get everyone going, and set the foundation for a championship team. Rice does that, Odegaard doesn't. Come on, Arteta, give him the armband," the 58-year-old former defender stated.

Tony Adams (right) celebrates the 1997-1998 Premier League title with manager Arsene Wenger. *Photo: Arsenal FC*

Adams is a legendary former center-back and captain of Arsenal, spending his entire playing career at the club from 1983 to 2002. He scored 49 goals in 672 appearances, winning four English league titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups, and a European Cup Winners' Cup (predecessor to the Europa League).

Renowned for his defensive command, fighting spirit, and leadership qualities, Adams is considered one of the best defenders in English football history.

Hong Duy (*Daily Mail*)