Thomas Partey Joins Al-Shabab After Exiting Villarreal
Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has joined Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab on a one-year deal after leaving Villarreal as a free agent.
By: Fimpong | The Breaking Desk
Published: August 21, 2026
Ghana international Thomas Partey has completed a move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab on a free transfer. This ends his one-season stay in Spain with Villarreal. The 33-year-old midfielder inked a one-year deal with the Riyadh-based side after his contract with Villarreal expired at the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign.
Partey arrived in Riyadh on Monday to complete medical exams and finalize the transfer details. He is now starting the next phase of his club career. It has included Europe’s top leagues.
Club Career Milestones
- Atlético Madrid: Developed through the ranks in Spain into an elite box-to-box midfielder, claiming La Liga and UEFA Europa League titles.
- Arsenal (2020–2025): Made 130 appearances and scored 9 goals across all competitions during a five-year stint in North London.
- Villarreal (2025–2026): Featured 32 times in all competitions for El Submarino Amarillo, including 25 appearances in La Liga, five in the UEFA Champions League, and two in the Copa del Rey.
- Al-Shabab (2026–Present): Joins as a senior midfield presence in Saudi Arabia on a one-year contract.
Key Engine for the Black Stars
Partey remains a pivotal figure for the Ghana national team. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he played every minute of Ghana’s group-stage fixtures, starting against England, Croatia, and Colombia as the Black Stars advanced to the Round of 32.
With Ghana set to begin its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in September, Partey’s top-level match fitness and leadership will serve as vital assets for the Black Stars after their absence from the previous edition of the tournament.
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