Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has officially joined Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab, bringing his 13-year career in European football to an end.
Al Shabab announced the arrival of the 33-year-old on Friday with a video posted on X, although the club did not reveal the duration of his contract.
However, Ghanaian outlet GHANASoccernet reports that Partey has signed a one-year contract with the Saudi club.
Al Shabab welcomed the midfielder with the message: “Just a regular Friday; casually signing a legend. Welcome to your Den, Thomas.”
The move represents Partey’s first venture into the Middle East after more than a decade playing in Europe.
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Partey began his European journey in 2013 after leaving Ghanaian side Tema Youth for Atletico Madrid.
The midfielder initially had to work his way into Diego Simeone’s plans and subsequently spent loan spells at Mallorca and Almeria before returning to Atletico and establishing himself as an important member of the first team.
His performances in Spain eventually attracted the attention of Arsenal, who signed him in 2020 in a deal reportedly worth £45m.
Partey spent five seasons in the Premier League, making more than 100 appearances for Arsenal and becoming one of the club’s key midfielders during his spell in North London.
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After leaving Arsenal, Partey returned to Spain with Villarreal, where he spent the latter part of his European career.
His move to Al Shabab now takes him into a new footballing environment and brings a significant chapter of his career to a close.
At Al Shabab, the Ghana international’s experience at the highest level is expected to add quality and leadership to the club’s midfield.
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Partey has also been an important figure for Ghana since making his senior international debut in 2016.
He has represented the Black Stars at major international tournaments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, where Ghana reached the knockout stage.
After spells with Atletico Madrid, Mallorca, Almeria, Arsenal and Villarreal, Partey now begins his latest chapter with Al Shabab.
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