CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Independence today announced that experienced midfielder, Gabriel Obertan, will suit up for the Jacks for the 2024 season, pending league and federation approval. This marks Obertan's fourth year with the club following a successful career with Newcastle United FC and Manchester United FC in the English Premier League, among other top-flight clubs across Europe.

"I am delighted to have Gabriel join us for another season," Charlotte Head Coach Mike Jeffries shared. "In addition to his major on-field impact, Gabriel, through his background, experience and character, provides tremendous locker room leadership. With his humble nature, he remains a tremendous example and driver for our younger players."

Obertan notched four goals and four assists in 28 appearances for the Independence in 2023. He scored in the USL League One Quarterfinal, helping the Jacks advance past Greenville Triumph SC en route to their first league final appearance in club history. 

In 2022, Obertan logged four goals and three assists, including the team's only goal in the USL League One Playoffs that year. He helped lead the team to the USL Championship Conference Semifinals in 2021 behind five goals and two assists during the regular season.

"I'm looking forward to another great year with the Charlotte Independence and seeing our fans for the home opener," Obertan commented. "Let's go Jacks!"

Before he joined the Independence, Obertan played for Turkish side Ezurumpsor FK and scored a combined eight goals and earned five assists across 71 appearances from 2018-21. Prior to his time in Turkey, Obertan played with PFC Levski Sofia in Bulgaria (2017-18), English side Wigan Athletic FC (2017), and Russian club FC Anzhi Makhachkala (2016).

Obertan played with Newcastle United FC in the English Premier League before making the move to Anzhi Makhachkala. With Newcastle, he scored three goals and earned 10 assists across 77 appearances from 2011-16 in the Premier League and UEFA Europa League.

He began his stay in the Premier League with Manchester United FC from 2009-11. He appeared in both league play as well as the UEFA Champions League with the Red Devils. Obertan scored one goal and provided four assists across 27 appearances, one goal and two assists came in Champions League play.

Obertan began his professional career with French club FC Girondins de Bordeaux and appeared in 79 games, scored six goals and provided five assists between 2006-09. He left Bordeaux for a short stint with fellow French side, FC Lorient, where Obertan scored two goals in 17 appearances.

The Paris native began his youth career with a number of Parisian clubs including Paris-Pantin, Paris FC and Paris-Saint Germain. Obertan also made 49 appearances with various levels of the France youth national team between 2004 and 2010.