Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab have confirmed the signing of Ghana international Thomas Partey on a free transfer.
The 33-year-old midfielder joins the Saudi side after becoming a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Villarreal, who opted against extending his deal.
Partey previously spent five seasons with Arsenal, making 167 appearances for the English Premier League club between 2020 and 2025.
His move to Al-Shabab comes as he faces ongoing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom. Partey is scheduled to stand trial next year after pleading not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault relating to allegations involving four women between 2020 and 2022.
The midfielder was also denied entry into Canada during this summer’s World Cup ahead of Ghana’s opening match against Panama because of the ongoing criminal proceedings.
According to the BBC, Partey told Canadian officials that he had never been arrested or charged with a crime, despite having been arrested and charged in the UK.
He subsequently featured in Ghana’s remaining three matches at the tournament, with the Black Stars reaching the last 32 before losing to Colombia.
At club level, Partey brings significant top-flight experience to Al-Shabab, having previously played for Atletico Madrid and Arsenal before his spell at Villarreal.
Al-Shabab finished 13th in the Saudi Pro League last season and began the new campaign with a defeat. The club’s squad also includes former Burnley captain Josh Brownhill and ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Daniel Podence.
Partey’s arrival is expected to add experience and strength to Al-Shabab’s midfield as the club seeks to improve on last season’s league position.
