Ex-Arsenal And Barcelona Midfielder, Alex Song Retires

Alex Song, a former midfielder for Cameroon, Barcelona, and Arsenal, has declared his retirement from sport at the age of 36.

Song played with AS Arta/Solar7 in Djibouti for the last three years of his playing career, during which he won two Djibouti Cups and two Djibouti Premier League championships.

The 36-year-old made his most recent appearance for AS Arta/Solar7 in September 2022 during the first round of the CAF Champions League. He played the entire 90 minutes in a goalless draw with Al-Merrikh SC.

After 19 years as a senior player, Song—who also assisted in overseeing the development of young players with the African club—made the decision to hang up his boots.

“It is with great sadness that the time has come for me to hang up my boots,” Song wrote on Instagram. “My journey that began in Yaoundé as a child, playing with no boots, in bare feet, and on hard gravel, gave me the strength and courage to succeed

“When I moved to France, playing for Bastia I thought I had achieved a miracle. However, this was only the start as my journey continued to Arsenal and Barcelona, two of the greatest clubs in the World. So many people have helped me along the way, my wife, my kids, family, friends, my agent, coaches and of course all my teammates whom I will forever be grateful.

“Of course Charlton, West Ham, Rubin Kazan, Sion, and Arta/Solar 7 will always remain in my heart. Having the honour of representing my country 60 times also filled me with great pride. I feel blessed with so many great memories that will remain with me forever.

“Lastly, I would like to thank all the fans who have supported me along the way, I will treasure everything. I hope to see you all again soon. Alex. There is only one Song.”

During his 19-year senior football career, Alex Song also played for Charlton Athletic and West Ham United in England, as well as for the French team Bastia.

The former Cameroon international played for Arta/Solar7 in Djibouti for the final three years of his career before retiring.