Everton’s acquisition of Jake O’Brien follows a standout season with Lyon, but his potential was already evident during his loan spells at Swindon and Molenbeek while he was still with Crystal Palace. Adam Bate speaks to O’Brien’s former coaches to uncover more about his journey Thapcamtv.
It was during the first half of Molenbeek’s match against Beveren last April when it occurred. Molenbeek’s top defender was involved in a clash with the opposing striker and ended up with a broken nose. Blood was pouring down his face.
“In fact, many such stories exist” Jonathan Alves tells Sky Sports. Alves, who was Molenbeek’s assistant coach, was worried about both the player and the team. “With the top two teams facing off, we were certain he’d have to come off. It seemed impossible for him to continue. But he just wiped himself off and carried on.”
Alves still recalls how this Irishman turned to the Belgian crowd and urged them to cheer him on. “Within minutes, he was putting in an outstanding performance. If you want to understand who Jake O’Brien is, just watch that game and see his impact.”
It feels somewhat awkward to commend such bravery when there would have been no shame in him leaving the field. Yet for those involved, this moment was pivotal in Molenbeek’s title victory. “A big game, immense pressure? He was ready. That’s my fondest memory of Jake.”
At the time, O’Brien’s successes abroad were just a minor interest for Crystal Palace fans who had followed the career of a player signed from Cork City in 2021. When he returned, he left for Lyon in a transfer worth around £1m, and that was the end of the story.
However, O’Brien’s remarkable performance during his single season in France has earned him a £17m move back to the Premier League with Everton. Now 23, he is poised for the next stage of his career, and those who have worked with him believe he will excel under Sean Dyche.
His initial foray into English football was on loan at Swindon Town in League Two. Ben Garner, who was managing the Robins at the time, had previously been at Palace himself. “I could gather insights not just about him as a player, but also about his character,” Garner tells Sky Sports.
The reports described a towering young defender standing at 6ft 6ins tall. “Our team is looking for a central defender, especially players who can play on the wings and play well in fixed ball situations, because these players only have a wide range of action.” Garner explains.
But O’Brien offered more than just his height.
“We need a player who can play the ball well, has the ability to attack, and can keep the ball at his feet, and Jake meets these requirements. He came in, fearless with the ball, quick, and athletically gifted for his size. Naturally, he was strong in the air due to his frame, and he was also a humble and determined young man.”
An injury towards the end of that season slightly hindered his progress, but the loan move to Belgium the following season helped him further develop his game. After just a few training sessions, Alves could see that he had the potential to make a significant impact.
“You could instantly see the difference he made to the team. He was undoubtedly the best defender in the league, and by a considerable margin. We were confident he would excel at the international level. The league was too small for him, but it was still a valuable step in his development.”
Just like at Swindon, his aerial ability was exceptional. Similarly, his former coach is eager to highlight that his physical attributes are complemented by other qualities. “He’s tall, so he’s going to win most aerial duels,” says Alves.
“That’s typical, of course. But what sets him apart is his ability to handle a lot of space behind him due to his speed. This is crucial in top leagues, where you need to be at ease with space behind you, and he is exceptionally comfortable in those situations.”
“For example, each attacking player usually has 2 defenders supporting him, to effectively increase attack. With Jake, that wasn’t necessary. His one-on-one capability provided us with a significant advantage, almost as if we had an additional player on the field.”
Molenbeek frequently controlled their games that season, with O’Brien making 30 appearances. He thrived in this environment. “On the ball, he excels. When facing a high press, he handles it effortlessly. He’s not intimidated by playing out from the back and can effectively break through defensive lines.”
The team faced high expectations that season, not just to perform well but to do so consistently. Promotion was the goal from the start. Despite being a young player in a new country, O’Brien embraced the challenge and took on the responsibility with confidence.
“There were high expectations for the team, which brought pressure from the media, fans, and the board. However, one of his greatest strengths is his mentality. He possesses a strong self-confidence, which is crucial. He remains unaffected by external opinions.”
That mindset proved invaluable at Lyon, where he arrived under challenging conditions. The seven-time French champions were at the bottom of the table when he made his debut in October, and remained there as Christmas approached, before a remarkable turnaround occurred.
O’Brien scored four goals himself, including a crucial late winner against Toulouse. Remarkably, he ended up as Lyon’s second-highest scorer behind Alexandre Lacazette. “I believe he can excel even more from set pieces due to his height, aggression, and ability to read the ball well,” says Alves.
Dyche’s Everton could be the ideal environment to tap into that potential. “I believe it’s a strong match because of their shared mindset. The Premier League has been his goal from the beginning, and I think he’s prepared for it. He has confidence but remains humble enough to listen and learn.”
Garner’s interview:
“I and the entire coaching staff are very happy for the achievements he has achieved. As I mentioned, he’s a genuinely grounded, hardworking, and determined individual. I believe he has all the qualities needed for a successful career, and he’s proving that right now.”
“I think his progress has been faster than anyone expected, but it highlights how making the right decisions regarding loans and transfers can create an environment where you can thrive quickly.”
There have been a few bumps and bruises to manage along the way.
