'I'm really happy to be here' – Thomas Partey reflects on Al Shabab debut

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has expressed his delight after making his Saudi Pro League debut for Al Shabab, coming off the bench in a 1-1 draw with Al Khaleej.

The 33-year-old, who completed his move to the Riyadh-based club just hours earlier, entered the match in the 58th minute and made an immediate impact during his 32-minute cameo.

"Yeah, I think it's amazing. I like it. It's my first game here, and I thought we did great," Partey said after the match.

The Black Stars deputy captain came close to scoring in the 80th minute, with his effort narrowly missing the target. He completed 94% of his passes, found his target with all of his attempted long balls, and made one recovery.

"We could have scored. We had the chance to score, but it's part of football. We have to just keep working hard and try to make more points and get three points in our next game," he added.

Partey signed a one-year deal with Al Shabab after leaving Spanish side Villarreal, where he made 32 appearances last season. He arrives in Saudi Arabia after a distinguished European career that included spells at Atletico Madrid and Arsenal.

"I think it's normal. I will do my best to give everything to this club, and I'm really happy to be here," Partey said.

Al Shabab have collected just one point from their opening two league games and currently sit 13th in the Saudi Pro League. Their next assignment comes against Al Riyadh on August 25.

Partey's return to regular action will be closely watched in Ghana, with the midfielder expected to play an important role when the Black Stars resume international duty in September for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The former Arsenal man, who started three of Ghana's four matches at the 2026 World Cup, will be hoping his Saudi adventure provides the platform to rediscover his best form.