Jake O'Brien (footballer)

Jake O'Brien (born 15 May 2001) is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Ligue 1 club Lyon and the Republic of Ireland national team.

Early life
Born in County Cork, O'Brien grew up in Youghal, and in his youth also boxed and played hurling, winning national championships in both at Under-14s level.

Club career
O'Brien played for Cork City before moving on loan to English club Crystal Palace in February 2021, with the move made permanent in August 2021. He appeared for the Under-23 team at Palace, including in the EFL Trophy. He moved on loan to Swindon Town in January 2022, playing a total of 21 games.

In August 2022, O'Brien was loaned to Belgian club RWD Molenbeek, along with teammate Luke Plange, for the 2022–23 season. RWD Molenbeek qualified for the 2022-23 Challenger Pro League promotion play-offs in his first season with the club, holding a one-point lead over Beveren with two games remaining. O'Brien won the first trophy of his career as Molenbeek clinched the division.

In August 2023 he signed for French club Lyon, making his Ligue 1 debut on 1 October 2023. In doing so he became the first Irishman since Tony Cascarino in 2000 to play in Ligue 1. On 25 May 2024, he scored in the 2024 Coupe de France final as his side were defeated 2–1 by PSG.

International career
O'Brien has represented the Republic of Ireland at under-21 level, making 11 appearances between 2021 and 2022. His first call-up to the senior Republic of Ireland squad came in March 2024, ahead of their friendly games against Belgium and Switzerland. On 4 June 2024, O'Brien debuted in a friendly match against Hungary.

Honours
RWD Molenbeek
 * Challenger Pro League: 2022–23

Lyon
 * Coupe de France runner-up: 2023–24