\n<\/p>\n
Arsenal\u2019s defeat to Bournemouth has sparked fresh debate around Declan Rice\u2019s leadership, with pundit Jan Age Fjortoft openly questioning his influence.<\/strong><\/p>\n Rice has taken on added responsibility in the absence of Martin Odegaard. However, this latest result has shifted attention onto how Arsenal function without their captain. As a result, criticism has begun to surface at a crucial stage of the season.<\/p>\n Fjortoft delivered a strong verdict after the match.<\/p>\n \u201cI want to mention another name: Declan Rice,\u201d he said. \u201cI see he gets the captain\u2019s armband and I talk to English pundits and apparently he\u2019s the biggest leader since Lord Nelson.\u201d<\/p>\n Focus has now turned to Rice\u2019s presence on the pitch. While he continues to contribute across midfield, leadership demands more than consistent performances.<\/p>\n Fjortoft made that clear.<\/p>\n \u201cHe was the captain today but I didn\u2019t see that, I didn\u2019t see him doing that.\u201d<\/p>\n That view will split opinion. Rice brings intensity and reliability, yet visible leadership requires organisation, communication and control during key moments.<\/a><\/p>\n Therefore, expectations increase when he leads the side.<\/p>\nRice leadership role comes under pressure<\/strong><\/h2>\n