In the soccer world, the position of captain is like the soul of the team, which is responsible for uniting the players and endorsing the image of the team. Especially in the highly competitive English Premier League, the captaincy is often held by an experienced player. However, a new generation of young leaders is emerging, writing new chapters with their extraordinary personal qualities and on-field influence.
23-year-old Lloyd Kelly, Bournemouth's young captain, has taken on this role since the departure of former captain Steve Cook. The center back has excelled in the Championship, scoring one goal and dishing out one assist in 40 games to help his side to a second place finish. Although he was relegated with the team in the 19-20 season, his growth and resilience has seen him expected to shine in the Premier League in the 2022-23 season.
Norwegian midfielder Ödgård, aged just 23, has been named the new captain of the team by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. Following the departure of Alexandre Lacazette, the captaincy was left vacant, and Ödgör has been honored for his outstanding performances and club values. Not only is he the captain of the Norwegian national team, he is also the third youngest captain in the club's history, behind Cesc Fabregas and Adams. Last season he made 40 appearances, scoring seven goals and assisting five times, and was a key contributor to the team's fifth-place finish.
West Ham United's Rice, the youngest captain in the Premier League, won't turn 24 until next January. He was the team's vice-captain before Noble's retirement made him the official captain. The 23-year-old midfielder is experienced and a strong leader with both club and national teams. He has made 193 appearances for West Ham so far, scoring nine goals and assisting nine times.
These young captains proved with their actions that the future of soccer belongs to them. Their rise has not only injected fresh blood into the team, but also brought new vitality to the whole league.
