Thomas Partey Steps Up Personal Training Amid Interest From Saudi Arabia and Turkey
- Thomas Partey has been spotted intensifying personal training in Turkey ahead of an anticipated transfer move
- According to reports from an ace Ghanaian sports journalist, clubs in Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Spain are all keen on the midfielder
- Partey's next destination remains unconfirmed as the former Arsenal and Villarreal star weighs his options
- A seasoned coach has urged the 33-year-old to weigh his options carefully before making a move this summer
Black Stars deputy captain Thomas Partey is stepping up his fitness in Turkey as he closes in on a potential move after becoming a free agent.
The experienced midfielder has been without a club since his contract with Villarreal expired at the end of last season, but interest from several leagues continues to grow.
Source: Getty Images
Partey courts interest from Saudi and Turkey
According to ace Ghanaian sports journalist Ibrahim Saanie Daara, Partey has intensified his personal training programme in Turkey as he waits for his next opportunity.
Daara reported that clubs from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Spain are monitoring the 33-year-old, with a decision on his future expected soon.
Partey joined Villarreal after leaving Arsenal in the summer of 2025. During his time with the Yellow Submarines, the former Atletico Madrid player made 32 appearances, according to Transfermarkt.
Watch excerpts of Partey's training session, as shared on X:
Despite being without a team, Partey remained involved with Ghana's national team and featured at the just-ended FIFA World Cup.
He played in three matches for the Black Stars, missing only the opening group game against Panama due to visa issues in Canada.
His search for a new club comes during a difficult period, with the midfielder also facing legal proceedings in the United Kingdom over allegations of sexual offences.
He has denied wrongdoing, and the case remains ongoing.
Source: Getty Images
Fans rally behind Partey
While his future remains uncertain, some supporters have continued to back the former Arsenal star on social media.
@StarYorka10 wrote:
"Still balling despite everything he's going through."
@michaelmartey22 said:
"Please!!! The team leaders should let him wear the captain's band for the AFCON, We will do an amazing job with the boys. The AFCON will be brought to the Motherland. Ghana 🇬🇭"
@BenEsselAcquah1 added:
"The midfield general, no size. Am ready to watch your games."
@D_evil0 simply wrote:
"Proper baller 💯"
Watch a compilation of Partey's performance at the World Cup, as shared on X:
Partey told to weigh options carefully
As of the time of publication, Partey is yet to announce his next club, but his recent training sessions suggest he is already preparing for the next phase of his career.
Meanwhile, former Great Olympics, Nzema Kotoko and Swedru All Blacks coach Prince George Koffie has weighed in on the midfielder's future.
Speaking in an interview with YEN.com.gh, the seasoned tactician urged Partey to prioritise regular playing time ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
He said:
"Partey remains an integral member of the Black Stars, and as the vice-captain with an AFCON within sight, I would urge him to weigh his options carefully and join a club that will afford him more minutes to keep him in shape for the qualifiers, which start in September.
"While he would also want to consider the financial component, where he plays and how he plays will be very important to the national team, and since there is little to try out more players, Partey will be crucial. Hence my argument."
Partey 'humiliates' Bellingham at World Cup
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Thomas Partey produced a brilliant body feint to beat Jude Bellingham and England's press during Ghana's 2026 World Cup clash on June 23.
The Black Stars midfielder's quick footwork and composure drew widespread praise from fans on social media.
Source: YEN.com.gh
