Thomas Partey joins Saudi side Al Shabab after 13 years in European football

Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab have completed the signing of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, with the club confirming his arrival in an announcement video released on Friday.

Partey joins the Riyadh-based side as a free agent and is understood to have signed a one-year contract.

The move marks the first time the 33-year-old has played outside Europe since beginning his professional career and brings to an end a 13-year spell on the continent.

The Ghana international first moved to Spain in 2013 after joining Atletico Madrid from Ghanaian club Tema Youth. Following loan spells at Mallorca and Almeria, he returned to Atletico and established himself as a key player under coach Diego Simeone.

His impressive performances in La Liga earned him a move to Arsenal in 2020, with the Premier League club reportedly paying £45m for his services.

During his five seasons in north London, Partey made more than 100 appearances and became a regular presence in Arsenal's midfield as the club challenged for major honours.

After leaving Arsenal, he returned to Spain with Villarreal, where he spent the final stage of his European career before seeking a new challenge abroad.

Partey now begins a fresh chapter in Saudi Arabia, with Al Shabab hoping his experience at the highest level of European football will add quality and leadership to their midfield ahead of the new season.