A statement has sparked heated debate across football circles. The former Arsenal midfielder Alex Song has declared that his peak form would displace the Gunners’ current midfield titans. The 38-year-old Cameroonian, who made 204 appearances for Arsenal between 2005 and 2012 before his £15m sale to Barcelona, didn’t mince words. Speaking to ESPN Africa on December 4, 2025, Song asserted: “Yes, Gunners for life! In my prime, I’d start ahead of Declan Rice or Martin Zubimendi.” It’s the kind of self-assured proclamation that’s pure Song—unfiltered confidence from a player who evolved from box-to-box dynamo to defensive anchor under Arsène Wenger.
The Midfield Duo He’s Challenging
Song’s hypothetical intrusion targets Arsenal’s imperious pivot, arguably the Premier League’s finest. Declan Rice, 26, has elevated his game this season. He led the Gunners in carries (97), line-breaking passes (52), and chances created (9) from midfield. His England international’s leadership and ball-winning prowess have Arsenal five points clear at the top after 14 games, with just one defeat. Complementing him is Martin Zubimendi. The £60m summer signing from Real Sociedad is the cerebral No. 6 role. He topped Arsenal in tackles (21) and interceptions (12)—has liberated Rice to roam higher.
🚨 Ex-Arsenal midfielder claims he would force Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi out of the starting XI.
Read more ⤵️https://t.co/cjjN57C89K
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 4, 2025
Echoes of Wenger’s Era: Why the Hype?
Song’s Arsenal tenure was defined by reliability—seven years of grit in a golden era, including the 2006 Champions League final run. His prime self boasted aerial dominance and composure under pressure, traits echoing Rice’s evolution.
Fan Frenzy and Arteta’s Reality Check
The backlash has been swift, with Arsenal Insider labeling Alex Song “so wrong” amid the duo’s unbeaten streak in key metrics. Song’s arrogance is a humorous aside that reminds supporters of Arsenal’s legendary midfield heritage as the team prepares for December’s challenges. Would prime Song truly edge out Rice or Zubimendi? In banter terms, absolutely. In reality? Arsenal’s present powers that throne.
As featured on GoonerNews.com