Jan 30, 2026: Odegaard has worn the Adidas Predator football boots in Arsenal's last two matches, indicating that a switch from Nike is imminent. However, Arsenal's midfielders' boots are very different from what the average player gets.
Ødegaard's Predator 26 Features Unique Laceless x Laced Customization
Adidas has created a heavily customized version of the Predator 26 for Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard, featuring a knit structure in place of the standard tongue. The bespoke modification mirrors a similar approach Adidas took with Rodrygo's F50 boots, offering a personalized fit that combines the streamlined aesthetics of laceless boots with the adjustability of a traditional lacing system. This custom treatment raises questions about whether Adidas should consider offering a retail variant of this hybrid design, which could appeal to players seeking the best of both worlds in boot construction.
Jan 17, 2026: Arsenal star Martin Ødegaard has trained in the regular launch colorway of the Adidas Predator 26 football boots (standard laces version), indicating that he could very soon officially join Adidas.
However, in matches, Odegaard still trusts his Nike Mercurial Vapor soccer boots, which have become pretty during the last few weeks, as he apparently does not receive new colorways from Nike anymore.
Leading Arsenal midfielder Martin Ødegaard was spotted wearing the next-generation Adidas Predator 2026, Laceless version, during training, very much indicating that he is preparing to move away from Nike.
Next-Gen Adidas Predator 26 'Finishers Steel' Boots "Leaked"
Ødegaard Trains in Next-Gen Adidas Predator 2026 Prototype, Hinting at Incoming Brand Switch
The all-white prototype worn by Ødegaard clearly shows the updated Predator 3 stripes, inspired by the 2000 Precision model. It is the first look at the laceless variant - we have seen the togue and laces version before, but not the laceless.
Next-Gen Adidas Predator 2026 Boots Leaked
Martin Ødegaard has long been associated with the Nike Mercurial line, and seeing him test an unreleased Adidas model in full training is a significant development. The session even showed him carrying his usual Mercurials while choosing to work exclusively in the prototype boots on the pitch.
With the launch of the new Predator approaching later this month in a special Gunmetal colorway, this continued on-pitch testing suggests Adidas are pushing hard and could have signed Ødegaard with the launch of the next-generation Predator 26. or soon after.
Next-Gen Adidas Predator 26 'Finishers Steel' Boots "Leaked"
Do you think the Predator suits Ødegaard better than the Mercurial? Let us know in the comments.