Jake O'Brien (born 15 May 2001) is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Premier League club Everton 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 to play in Ligue 1 since 2000.
International career He has represented Ireland at under-21 level, making 11 appearances between 2021 and 2022.
