Thomas Partey has completed his move to Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab, bringing the curtain down on his spell in European football and opening a new chapter in the Ghana midfielder’s career.
The 33 year old has finalised the transfer after arriving in Riyadh earlier this week to complete his mandatory medical examination. Partey joins the Saudi Arabian outfit as a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Spanish side Villarreal, where he spent the 2025/26 campaign.
The move sees Partey embark on his latest adventure after previously starring for Atlético Madrid and Arsenal. During his time with Arsenal, the Ghana international made 130 appearances and scored nine goals before leaving the North London club in 2025. He subsequently spent one season at Villarreal, making 25 appearances across all competitions.
The transfer also comes at an important moment for the Black Stars. Partey remains one of Ghana’s most experienced players and recently represented the country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, featuring in all three matches as Ghana reached the Round of 32.
With Ghana’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign scheduled to begin in September, Partey’s move provides him with an opportunity to continue playing regularly while maintaining his fitness and competitive sharpness. His experience and leadership are expected to remain important to the Black Stars as they attempt to return to the continental tournament after missing the previous edition.
For Partey, the Saudi move represents more than a change of scenery. It is the latest chapter in a career that has taken him from Ghana to Atlético Madrid, Arsenal and Villarreal, and now to the Saudi Pro League.
