The Premier League veteran made 15 appearances for the Jacks in 2021
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (June 16, 2022) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that the club has re-signed midfielder Gabriel Obertan for the remainder of the 2022 season, pending league and federation approval. Obertan played for the Jacks record-breaking USL Championship squad in 2021, appearing in 15 matches with five goals and two assists. The Frenchman represented his country at the under-16, under-17, under-18, under-19 and under-21 levels.
“We are privileged to bring Gabriel back to the Independence,” stated Charlotte Independence Head Coach, Mike Jeffries. “His talent, drive, and winning mentality will be huge additions to our group. Adding a player of Gabriel’s level raises the standard for our group on the field in games and in training. Not only does Obertan add to our attack on the field, he is able to provide great mentorship to our younger players.”
Prior to joining the Independence, Obertan played in Europe with spells in France, England, Russia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. He began his professional career during the 2006-07 season with French club Bordeaux on a three-year contract where he earned his first professional start at the age of 17. He played in the Champions League for Bordeaux in two different seasons, including two starts. Obertan was then loaned to FC Lorient in 2008 where he made 17 appearances and scored two goals.
In 2009, Obertan secured a transfer to Manchester United in the English Premier League (EPL). He logged 28 appearances for the Red Devils between the EPL and the Champions League, where he recorded one goal and two assists against top-division European clubs.
After two seasons with the Red Devils, Newcastle United showed intrigue and signed Obertan to a five year contract. He made 77 appearances for Newcastle and notched three goals and four assists.
Following his departure from Newcastle United, Obertan signed with four different European clubs: Anzhi Makhachkala (2016), Wigan Athletic (2017), Levski Sofia (2017-18) and Erzurumspor (2019).
Over the course of his professional career, the French midfielder has made 318 appearances and scored 26 goals. Last season with the Independence, Obertan scored a game-winning goal over Miami FC and notched a late game-tying goal against Austin Bold FC.
The Charlotte Independence remain on the road for two more matches before returning home to American Legion Memorial Stadium for Men’s Health Night presented by Novant Health on Sunday, June 26. Tickets are on sale now at charlotteindependence.com.
