When it was revealed that Everton were bringing a new center-half to Goodison Park, speculation about Jarrad Branthwaite’s future reignited.
Despite the transfer of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa for £50 million, and with Manchester United yet to meet Everton’s steep asking price, the likelihood of Branthwaite remaining with Everton by the September deadline is increasing.
Jake O’Brien’s £16 million transfer from Olympique Lyonnais to Everton is not an indication that Branthwaite is on his way out.
O’Brien is a right-footed center-half, suggesting Everton sees him as a potential replacement for James Tarkowski rather than the left-sided Branthwaite.
It is anticipated that O’Brien will pair with Branthwaite in a promising new defensive line-up for the Toffees.
Keith Treacy, who played under Sean Dyche at Burnley, believes Dyche is an ideal coach for the 23-year-old O’Brien.
Dyche has a track record of developing solid Premier League defenders, including Branthwaite, Tarkowski, and Ben Mee.
Treacy emphasized Dyche’s ability to motivate and command respect, describing the Dyche-O’Brien partnership as a “match made in heaven.”
O’Brien’s physical presence is immediately noticeable. At 6 feet 6 inches, he is a dominant figure in both penalty areas, having scored five goals for Lyon in the 2023/24 season, including a crucial one against Paris Saint-Germain in the Coupe de France final.
However, Treacy points out that O’Brien’s game is not limited to aerial prowess; he is also adept at playing out from the back and making precise passes into the midfield, similar to Branthwaite.
Treacy, a former player for Blackburn, Sheffield United, and Preston North End, praised O’Brien’s all-around capabilities, noting his performances for Ireland against Hungary and Portugal.
Treacy believes Dyche will be able to maximize O’Brien’s potential, considering him a well-rounded defender with the ability to excel in Dyche’s system.
O’Brien’s leadership qualities have also caught attention. Seamus Coleman, his new Everton teammate, currently captains the Republic of Ireland national team.
Treacy believes that if O’Brien continues his development trajectory, he could succeed Coleman as captain.
Treacy highlights O’Brien’s maturity and composure on the field, predicting a bright future for him as both a key player for Everton and a potential future captain for Ireland.
In summary, Jake O’Brien’s transfer to Everton is seen as a strategic move to strengthen their defense, with no immediate threat to Jarrad Branthwaite’s position.
O’Brien’s physical attributes, coupled with his ability to play out from the back, make him an exciting addition to the team.
Under Sean Dyche’s guidance, O’Brien is expected to reach new heights in his career, with potential leadership roles both at Everton and internationally with Ireland.
