Arsenal endured a turbulent 2024/25 campaign, with several key players struggling to meet expectations. Mikel Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta responded by reshaping the squad this summer, bringing in eight new signings.
Among the most high-profile arrivals were Viktor Gyökeres, who joined from Sporting CP for £63 million, along with Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze. These additions were designed to ease the burden on Arsenal’s established stars, including club captain Martin Ødegaard.
Ødegaard Under Fire.
The Norwegian midfielder had a difficult season last year, with an ankle injury early on affecting his rhythm and consistency. His dip in form led to criticism from both fans and pundits, with Arsenal legend Tony Adams questioning his suitability as captain.
Speaking at an event, Adams suggested Declan Rice would be a better leader, arguing:
“Every now and again as a manager, you have to put someone in there who reflects the football club, who can actually take you to the next level… Declan Rice can do that, Ødegaard can’t. Come on Arteta, make him captain.”
Ødegaard Breaks His Silence
After months of speculation, Ødegaard finally addressed the criticism in an interview with The Athletic. His response was measured:
“I don’t care that much, to be honest. Everyone can have their opinion and say what they want, and I’m all right with that. I can’t care about what everyone says. There’s a lot of negative and positive things to say, but I can’t let it affect me. That’s what I’ve thought throughout my career.”
Back in Form
Despite the questions surrounding his leadership, Ødegaard has made a strong start to the new season. He impressed in Arsenal’s win at Manchester United and also delivered for Norway against Finland during the international break.
Recovering from a shoulder problem, the playmaker is expected to be available for Arsenal’s upcoming clash with Nottingham Forest. And unlike last season, Arteta now has greater squad depth to manage his captain carefully without relying on him every week.
