Partey officially joins Al-Shabab on free transfer

Black Stars deputy captain Thomas Partey has officially joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab as a free agent, bringing his latest European chapter to an end.

The 33-year-old midfielder has signed with the Saudi Arabian club after leaving Spanish side Villarreal at the end of the 2025/26 season. Al-Shabab confirmed the signing on Friday, August 21, 2026, marking a new chapter in Partey’s career.

Partey joins Al-Shabab after spending one season at Villarreal, where he made 25 appearances across all competitions following his departure from Arsenal in 2025. His move to Saudi Arabia comes as a free transfer after his contract with the Spanish club expired.

The Ghanaian midfielder previously enjoyed a successful spell with Arsenal, making 130 appearances and scoring nine goals during his time with the Premier League club.

Before moving to England, he established himself at Atletico Madrid, where he gained extensive experience at the highest level of European football.

His arrival is expected to add significant experience and leadership to Al-Shabab’s midfield as the club prepares for the new Saudi Pro League campaign. The club is coached by German manager Thomas Letsch and plays its home matches at the 1947 SHG Arena.

Partey also remains an important figure 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 reached the Round of 32.

The move to Al-Shabab could also prove important for Ghana as the Black Stars prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, scheduled to begin in September. Ghana will be seeking to return to the continental tournament after missing the previous edition.

His transfer to Saudi Arabia also continues the growing movement of established African and international players to the Saudi Pro League, which has increasingly attracted high-profile footballers from major European leagues.