Ex-Burnley captain snubs Premier League interest to complete shock Saudi Pro League transfer

Brownhill’s decision comes just months after he helped the Clarets return to the Premier League, finishing last season with a stunning personal tally of 18 goals. Over five years at Burnley, the ex-Preston North End star racked up 211 appearances and 32 goals, becoming one of the club’s most consistent figures.    

Al-Shabab are already home to Belgian international Yannick Carrasco and ex-Premier League defender Wesley Hoedt. Speaking about his decision to leave English football behind, Brownhill admitted it was club manager Imanol Alguacil who convinced him the time was right to leap. The former Real Sociedad manager reportedly impressed the midfielder with a tactical blueprint designed to maximise Brownhill’s attacking instincts.  

"I feel really honoured to join Al-Shabab," Brownhill said. "The way the manager plays - formation, system and the vision that they see - is what really attracted me. I'm hoping to score a lot of goals and we'll be aiming to win some trophies this season." 

Brownhill arrives at a club in need of inspiration. Al-Shabab opened their Saudi Pro League campaign with a 4-1 defeat to Al-Khaleej, a result that raised eyebrows and piled early pressure on Alguacil’s reign. If Friday’s clash with Al-Hazm comes too soon for the Englishman, fans may have to wait until September 19 when Al-Shabab take on Al-Feiha to witness his debut.