Omanghana
Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab has granted Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey bereavement leave to return home following the death of his father, Jacob Teye Partey.
His father died on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, after a short illness, according to reports.
In a statement shared on X, Al Shabab expressed condolences to Partey and his family, offering support and wishing them strength during their period of mourning.
The 33-year-old Black Stars deputy captain had reportedly continued attending training in Riyadh after receiving news of his father’s death. The leave will allow him to join his family in Ghana.
Jacob Teye Partey was an influential figure in his son’s football journey, providing financial support that helped him pursue opportunities abroad. Accounts of Partey’s early career indicate that his father sold land and personal belongings to help cover travel documents, football boots and other expenses associated with his move from Krobo Odumase to Spain.
That support helped pave the way for Partey’s career at Atlético Madrid, before subsequent spells with Arsenal and Villarreal.
The midfielder joined Al Shabab as a free agent on August 12, 2026, strengthening the Saudi club’s midfield for the current season.
The family is expected to announce funeral arrangements in due course.
Source: Omanghana
