Piers Morgan Calls for SHOCK Arsenal Captain Change After Dominant Win vs Sunderland
Arsenal secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, February 7, 2026, strengthening their grip on top spot in the Premier League.
The win, featuring goals from Martin Zubimendi and a second-half brace by Viktor Gyokeres, pushed the Gunners nine points clear of Manchester City ahead of City’s tough trip to Anfield on Sunday.
This dominant performance has sparked plenty of discussion among fans — and one particularly loud voice has once again weighed in.
Piers Morgan Calls for Major Arsenal Captaincy Change
Well-known Arsenal supporter and broadcaster Piers Morgan took to X shortly after the final whistle to praise one player in particular and make a bold suggestion to manager Mikel Arteta.
Morgan wrote:
“Declan Rice has been magnificent yet again today. What a player, what a signing. No disrespect to Odegaard but he is so obviously now the real Arsenal leader. Arteta should make him captain.”
The post quickly divided opinions in the Arsenal fanbase, with many jumping in to share their thoughts on whether the captaincy should switch from current skipper Martin Ødegaard to Declan Rice.
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Fan Reactions: Support, Caution and Calls to Enjoy the Moment
Morgan’s demand didn’t go unnoticed. Supporters had plenty to say in response:
- One fan pointed out the tradition behind the role:”It’s always up to the team to vote their leader… Rice aside tho, Arteta had created so many leader-like figures in the squad.”
- Another acknowledged Rice’s qualities while noting managerial priorities:”He has more leadership traits than Odegaard. But managers look at other things when choosing captains, hence we might not see him captaining the team this year or the next.”
- A third urged focus on the bigger picture:”Don’t distract the team with your stupid takes right now, let us enjoy the moment please Piers.”
- Someone else advised against mid-season upheaval:”There’s a good case for Declan and Gabriel… but don’t change anything mid-season.”
- And one supporter defended the current captain:”But respect should still be given to Odegaard man has had his golden moments.”
The debate highlights the respect many still hold for Ødegaard’s leadership, while also recognizing Rice’s growing influence since his big-money arrival from West Ham. Rice has consistently delivered strong performances in midfield, showing composure, work rate and vocal presence — traits that clearly catch Morgan’s eye.
How Arsenal vs Sunderland Match Unfolded: Dominant Gunners Extend Title Lead
Arsenal didn’t always look at their free-flowing best against a resilient Sunderland side managed by Regis Le Bris. The visitors had earned a creditable 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture earlier in the season, but they struggled to match the Gunners’ intensity this time.
The breakthrough arrived just before half-time when Martin Zubimendi unleashed a superb low strike from outside the box that curled in off the post. The second half saw Viktor Gyokeres — introduced as a substitute — make an immediate impact. He scored in the 66th minute and added a third deep in stoppage time (90+3), sealing a clean-sheet win and four consecutive victories across all competitions for Arteta’s men.
With Manchester City facing Liverpool next, Arsenal’s commanding lead gives them real breathing room in the title race.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
The Gunners now turn their attention to a tricky midweek trip to Brentford on Thursday night. A win at the Gtech Community Stadium would keep the momentum rolling and pile even more pressure on their title rivals.
For now, though, the focus remains on enjoying a strong performance — and perhaps letting the captaincy debate simmer until the end of the season. Whether Arteta agrees with Piers Morgan’s view is another matter entirely.
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Piers Morgan Urges Mikel Arteta to Make Declan Rice Arsenal Captain After Sunderland Win