Former Arsenal midfielder Alex Song has made the bold claim that he would command a starting spot in Mikel Arteta's current Premier League-leading side, despite the presence of stars like Declan Rice.
"Gunners for life": Song's confident claim
In a recent interview with ESPN Africa, the 38-year-old ex-Cameroon international was asked if a prime version of himself would start for several of the world's elite clubs. Song answered "yes" to Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Newcastle, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid. When Arsenal was mentioned, his response was emphatic: "Yes, Gunners for life! Yes."
This assertion comes despite Arsenal's formidable midfield currently being anchored by the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. Song, who spent seven years at the North London club, clearly believes his past abilities would see him selected over one of Arteta's current key men.
The one club he'd never play for
The interview took a predictable turn when Tottenham Hotspur was raised. Song's answer was an immediate and forceful rejection. "No. I will never play for Tottenham. Never! It will never happen!" he declared, upholding a classic Arsenal allegiance.
Song's journey with the Gunners began in 2005, when he joined from French side Bastia for a fee of £1 million. Initially a trialist on a pre-season tour, he impressed manager Arsene Wenger enough to earn a permanent deal.
From Arsenal to Barcelona and beyond
Over seven years and 204 appearances, Song evolved from a box-to-box midfielder into a more orthodox defensive number six under Wenger's guidance. In 2012, he secured a high-profile £15 million move to Barcelona, where he won LaLiga in his first season, albeit as a rotation player, making 20 appearances.
His career later included a two-year loan spell at West Ham United, followed by moves to Rubin Kazan and Swiss club Sion. He ultimately retired after a stint with AS Arta in Djibouti.
Despite leaving Arsenal without winning a trophy, Song's confidence in his former prowess remains undimmed. His claim that he would walk into almost any top side in the world today is certainly a striking one, showcasing the enduring self-belief of a former Gunner.
