Former Barcelona Midfielder Alex Song Hangs Up His Boots at 36

On Tuesday, former Barcelona star Alex Song officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36, marking the conclusion of a career that spanned various clubs and leagues.

In a surprising move in 2012, Barcelona secured the signing of Song from Arsenal for a reported fee of £15m. The Cameroonian midfielder’s stint in Catalonia lasted two years before he ventured back to the Premier League with West Ham United. Later, he made a permanent move to Rubin Kazan in 2016.

Song’s time at Barcelona was not characterized by a significant impact on the pitch. However, in a revealing statement in 2022, he candidly admitted that his decision to join Barcelona was largely motivated by financial considerations. Despite being informed that playing time might be limited, Song was enticed by the substantial wages offered.

“When Barcelona offered me a contract and I saw how much I would earn, I didn’t think twice. I felt that my wife and children should have a comfortable life once I finish my degree. I met the Sporting Director, and he told me I wouldn’t play many games, but I didn’t care. I knew I would become a millionaire now. I didn’t give a s*** about being a bench warmer at the Camp Nou because of the money I was making.”

While Song may not have left an indelible mark at Barcelona compared to his stints at Arsenal and Bastia, his retirement marks the end of a professional journey that he will likely reflect on with a mix of experiences and memories, including his time in Catalonia.