Mikel Arteta should take the captaincy off Martin Odegaard and give it to Declan Rice.
That’s the view of journalist Henry Winter, who still gave credit to the Arsenal star who has led the Gunners as skipper since 2022.
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However, the eSPORTY host believes that it is time for the Norwegian to step aside and allow Rice to take the captain’s armband.
The former West Ham United star has become one of the best midfielders in the world and played a huge role in claiming the first Premier League title in 22 years.
And Winter has called for him to become the new captain to reflect his importance to the team
Speaking on the Sunday Session with Shaun Custis, he said: “I have been saying this for ages that Declan Rice should be the captain.
“Martin Odegaard is the perfect representative, but I think the Dog of War and elite performer is Declan Rice.
“You saw his determination at the end of the game at the Etihad, and there is some of that Steven Gerrard spirit in him that drives him on and drives the team on.
“I think Arsenal have to build around him and buy on the left and possibly a centre forward as well.”
Rice’s importance
In the Premier League, Rice missed just 321 minutes this season.
The midfielder was also nominated for Player of the Year and has been talked about in relation to the Ballon d’Or as well.
The statistics show that he is good at almost every facet of the game, including set pieces.
Regarding the Ballon d’Or, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink actually revealed that he thinks the 27-year-old is one of England’s best hopes of winning that award.
Speaking to eSPORTY a few months ago, he said: “I think Declan Rice has been more or less perfect, as perfect as he can be over the whole season.”
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Odegaard’s pride
If Odegaard is to be replaced as captain, he signs off in the best possible way.
The midfielder got to be the first Arsenal skipper in 22 years to hold that Premier League trophy aloft.
Speaking in the aftermath of the Champions League final, he said: “It’s painful at the moment, but when you look at the bigger picture, we’ve had an incredible season.
“We won the league for the first time in 22 years, and of course, being this close today as well.
“We have to celebrate the title with our supporters – they deserve that,” he added. “I think we deserve that. We’ve done something incredible together and of course, it would have been even better with the double.
“But still, it’s an incredible achievement and we’re looking forward to seeing all our supporters tomorrow.”
“We’ve done some incredible things and we had a great run in the Champions League as well. We just have to use the feeling that we have now and also the positive feelings we have from this season to reflect on all of it, and make sure we come back even stronger in the next season. There are lots of good things to take and some things for sure in Europe as well.”
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What’s next for Arsenal?
Winter feels as if Arteta has proven a lot of people wrong by winning the Premier League.
But he has challenged them to try and win again with more style and freedom.
“I know people find Arteta difficult to warm to because of his antics in the box and some of things he’s said.
“But he’s changed the narrative by claiming the Premier League title, but the key thing is how they kick on from now and if they become a more risk-taking team.”
