“Arteta should strip Odegard of the captain band and give it to him”- Manchester United Legend Rio Ferdinand has told Mikel Arteta to collect Arsenal’s captaincy from Odegard and give it to….

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has expressed his belief that Declan Rice could emerge as a future captain for Arsenal, shedding light on the potential challenges the midfielder might face following his record-breaking transfer from West Ham United. Ferdinand’s insights, shared on his Vibe with FIVE YouTube channel, offer a glimpse into the expectations and pressures awaiting Rice as he embarks on this pivotal chapter in his career.

Reflecting on Rice’s character, Ferdinand emphasizes the scrutiny that accompanies such a high-profile move, cautioning that any initial setbacks will inevitably draw criticism. He notes that while Rice has yet to experience this level of pressure, his resilience and demeanor make him well-equipped to handle the rigors of playing for a top club like Arsenal. Ferdinand’s endorsement of Rice’s leadership qualities extends to predicting his eventual ascension to the captaincy at the Emirates Stadium, underscoring the midfielder’s potential to leave a lasting imprint on the club.

Rice’s transfer to Arsenal not only marks a significant milestone for the North London outfit but also cements his status as the most expensive British player in history. The hefty price tag attached to his acquisition underscores Arsenal’s determination to secure his services, recognizing his value as a player of immense talent and potential.

At just 24 years old, Rice has already established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders, showcasing a blend of defensive prowess, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess. His impressive contributions on the pitch, including five goals and four assists in 50 appearances across all competitions last season, highlight his versatility and importance to any team.

Beyond his on-field attributes, Rice’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed, with his captaincy of West Ham United to UEFA Europa Conference League success serving as a testament to his ability to inspire and motivate his teammates. His integral role in Gareth Southgate’s England national team further underscores his pedigree and potential to excel at the highest levels of the game.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Rice comes on the heels of a promising campaign in which they mounted a credible challenge for the Premier League title. However, their ultimately unsuccessful bid highlighted a need for additional leadership and quality in key areas of the pitch. In Rice, Arsenal believe they have found a player capable of addressing those deficiencies and helping propel them to greater success in the future.