Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has completed a move to Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab, ending his 13-year career in European football.
Al Shabab announced the signing on Friday, 21 August 2026, in a video published on the club’s official X account. Multiple reports state that Partey has agreed a one-year contract with the Saudi club.
The transfer is the first time the 33-year-old has played outside Europe since beginning his professional career. It marks a new phase for a midfielder whose career has included spells with Atletico Madrid, Arsenal and Villarreal, as well as extensive international experience with Ghana.
Partey began his European journey with Atletico Madrid in 2013. His performances in Spain helped establish him as a highly regarded defensive midfielder and eventually attracted the attention of Arsenal, who signed him in 2020.
He spent five seasons in North London, making more than 100 appearances for the Gunners. During that time, Partey became an important member of Arsenal’s midfield, providing defensive strength, physicality and experience in the Premier League.
Following his departure from Arsenal, Partey returned to Spain with Villarreal. He has now opted to leave European football altogether and join Al Shabab in the rapidly expanding Saudi Pro League.
The move brings to an end a lengthy and successful period in Europe, where Partey developed from a young midfielder at Atletico Madrid into an established Premier League player and Ghana international.
Partey has also been a prominent member of the Black Stars since making his senior debut in 2016. He has represented Ghana at several major international competitions and was part of the squad that reached the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His arrival gives Al Shabab an experienced international midfielder with knowledge of top-level football in both Spain and England. The club confirmed the deal through its social media channels but did not disclose further financial details.
The announcement comes as Saudi Pro League clubs continue to attract established players from European football. For Partey, the move represents his first professional opportunity outside Europe and the beginning of his career in Saudi Arabia.
The source material also references a documentary titled A Beautiful Obsession, focused on Guardiola, under the headline “Divorce, Clashes”, and says viewers can watch the full documentary. It also includes a separate item stating that Benjamin Asare received a $38,000 car for an outstanding Black Stars performance.
