Ghana Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey has officially joined Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab on a one-year contract, the club announced on Friday.
The 33-year-old Ghanaian midfielder moves to Saudi Arabia after his contract with Spanish side Villarreal expired at the end of the 2025/26 season.
Partey arrives at Al Shabab with considerable experience from top European leagues, having previously played for Spanish giants Atletico Madrid and Premier League club Arsenal.
Thomas Partey’s Arsenal Career
During his time at Arsenal, Partey made 130 appearances and scored nine goals across all competitions.
The Ghana international established himself as a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield, earning recognition for his physical strength, tactical awareness, passing range and composure on the ball.
After leaving Arsenal, Partey joined Villarreal as a free agent in 2025 and made 25 appearances in all competitions during his only season with the Spanish club.
His transfer to Al Shabab represents another major move in his club career as the Saudi Pro League continues to attract high-profile and experienced footballers from around the world.
Partey is expected to bring leadership, technical quality and valuable experience to Al Shabab’s midfield as the club prepares for the new campaign.
Thomas Partey Remains Key Player for Ghana
At international level, Partey continues to play an important role for the Ghana national team.
He represented the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, featuring in three matches as Ghana progressed to the Round of 32.
His move to Saudi Arabia comes at an important stage for the Black Stars, with Ghana set to begin its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign in September.
Ghana will be aiming to return to the continental tournament after missing the previous edition, and Partey’s experience and leadership are expected to be valuable to the national team.
The midfielder will now focus on adapting to life in the Saudi Pro League while maintaining his fitness and match sharpness ahead of Ghana’s upcoming international assignments.
Source: newsthemegh.com