Rumors are widespread that Martin Ødegaard is unhappy with his situation at Arsenal and has instructed his agent to open talks with Manchester United, while Declan Rice is being positioned as Arsenal's new captain.
On 16 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal's captain, shocked the football world after reports emerged that he had instructed his personal agent to "open negotiations" with Manchester United about a possible summer transfer, amid speculation that Declan Rice may be appointed Arsenal's new captain for the next season.
Although Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, has performed excellently this season—leading the Premier League by four points over Manchester City and advancing deeply in the FA Cup, League Cup, and UEFA Champions League—Ødegaard's individual form has not matched his strong displays from the previous two seasons.
The Norwegian international has scored just 1 goal and provided 4 assists in 19 Premier League appearances this season, a stark contrast to the 23 goals and 17 assists he recorded over 72 matches during the 2022/23 and 2023/24 campaigns.
Furthermore, Ødegaard has been benched multiple times by Mikel Arteta and is currently sidelined with a knee injury, further destabilizing his position within the team.
Reports indicate Arsenal is negotiating with Ødegaard regarding his role, and there is a possibility he will leave the club this summer, with Declan Rice being slated as the new captain.
Meanwhile, another source claims Ødegaard feels "undervalued" by both the club's board and coaching staff and has officially instructed his agent to open discussions with Manchester United.
Additionally, Bayern Munich remains interested in acquiring the playmaker, but reports say Ødegaard prefers to continue playing in the Premier League and would choose Manchester United if offered a suitable deal.