‘Don’t Fear Anyone!’ – Alex Song Delivers Powerful Message to Nairobi United Before Confederation Cup Group Stage Kick-Off

Former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder Alex Song has shared words of encouragement and perspective for debutants Nairobi United ahead of their historic CAF Confederation Cup group stage campaign — one that will see them face African heavyweights Wydad Casablanca and Tanzania’s Azam FC in a tricky Group B.

Song, who conducted the draw in Johannesburg on Monday afternoon, praised the balance and competitiveness of this year’s groups, describing them as “wide open” and filled with opportunity for emerging sides like the Kenyan outfit.

“Yeah, of course — that’s going to be fascinating,” Song said when asked about the East African derby between Nairobi United and Azam FC. 

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“When I look at all these groups, I think everyone has a real opportunity. Football in Africa has grown a lot, and you can see that from what happened at the last World Cup. You can’t take anything for granted anymore. 

“Sometimes people think some teams don’t have the quality, but football always surprises you. This is a great opportunity for these clubs to show their progress and ambition.”

The Kenyan side, making their first appearance on the continental stage, face a stern test against multiple CAF Champions League winners Wydad Casablanca, alongside regional rivals Azam FC and DR Congo outfit AS Maniema Union.

 As highlighted during the draw, Group B promises intense fixtures and a chance for Nairobi United to announce their arrival among the continent’s elite.

Song, who featured for Arsenal and Barcelona during his illustrious career, has also experienced African club football firsthand. In the twilight of his playing days, he joined Arta/Solar7 in Djibouti — competing in both the CAF Champions League and the Confederation Cup. For him, that chapter was about reconnecting with his roots and inspiring the next generation.

“I was lucky to have grown up in Europe and played at the highest level, but I had never played club football in Africa,” he said. 

“When I was nearing the end of my career, I said to myself, I want to play in Africa. I had the option to go to Dubai or to Djibouti, and I chose Djibouti. People asked me, ‘Why are you doing that?’ And I said, because I want my name to be remembered in Africa. Africa gave me so much — the love, the support, the passion — and I wanted to give something back.”

For Song, that experience shaped how he views football on the continent — not just as competition, but as a platform for growth and pride. “It meant everything,” he added.

 “I wanted to inspire the young guys, to show them that you can dream big and still come back home to help football grow. For me, being close to them, sharing experiences, and giving advice was special. Honestly, it was one of the best experiences of my football career.”

As Nairobi United gear up for their continental bow, Song’s message carries a simple but powerful reminder — that African football is on the rise, and courage, unity, and belief can make new contenders out of debutants.