Former Arsenal midfielder Alex Song has confirmed his retirement, days after visiting the Emirates Stadium to watch the Gunners play Burnley.

Alex Song back at the Emirates Stadium (Photo via Song on Instagram)
Alex Song back at the Emirates Stadium (Photo via Song on Instagram)

Writing on Instagram on Tuesday, Alex Song confirmed his retirement from football.

“It is with great sadness that the time has come for me to hang up my boots,” Song said.

“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.

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“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.”

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 26: Alex Song of Arsenal tackles Rafael van der Vaart of Tottenham Hotspur during the Barclays Premier League match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on February 26, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND: Alex Song of Arsenal tackles Rafael van der Vaart of Tottenham Hotspur during the Barclays Premier League match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on February 26, 2012. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

“Of course, Charlton, West Ham, Rubin Kazan, Sion, and Arta/Solar 7 will always remain in my heart,” Song continued. “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.”

SO KON PO, HONG KONG - JULY 29: Alex Song of Arsenal FC reacts during the pre-season Asian Tour friendly match between Kitchee FC and Arsenal at Hong Kong Stadium on July 29, 2012 in Hong Kong. (Photo by Victor Fraile/Getty Images)
SO KON PO, HONG KONG: Alex Song of Arsenal FC reacts during the pre-season Asian Tour friendly match between Kitchee FC and Arsenal at Hong Kong Stadium on July 29, 2012. (Photo by Victor Fraile/Getty Images)

As he mentions in his post, Song played for a number of teams across his career, most notably Arsenal and Barcelona.

The 36-year-old played for Arsenal more than any other club, making over 200 appearances for the Gunners.

He then spent two years with Barcelona, two years with West Ham United, two years with Rubin Kazan in the Russian Premier League, and two years with FC Sion in the Swiss Super League, before ending his career with Arta Solar 7 in the Djibouti Premier League.

Song visited the Emirates Stadium over the weekend, watching on as his former club won against Burnley, and he posted on Instagram his thanks to the Gunners for having him.

Fellow ex-Arsenal stars have commented on Song’s retirement post, including:

  • Theo Walcott: “Honour to share the pitch with you and I wish you all the best for whatever is next. Welcome to the club.”
  • Kieran Gibbs: “Congratulations Songito! Enjoy your retirement bro.”
  • Emmanuel Eboue: “Wishing you all the best and enjoy your retirement.”
  • Yassin Fortune (who also played with Song at Sion): “My magician, good luck for the future.”
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