Gabriel Obertan - Gone But Quickly Forgotten

The title says it all for the ex Manchester United winger after his recent 5 year deal move to Newcastle. When a player leaves a club you can normally think of five memories about the specific player, something Gabriel Obertan can’t offer. With hardly any chances to shine, the move was inevitable. The only major surprise being that Gabriel stayed in the country, which gives a good indication he wants to show the world that can ‘hack it’ in the best league in the world.

Moving to Man United for £3 million in 2009, the move was clearly being one for the future. Now still only 22, the acquisition of former Aston Villa winger Ashley Young is another reason which has forced Obertan out, as he ever slipped down the list. Scoring only one goal (a cracking one in his defence) in 15 appearances, the lack of opportunity is clearly apparent. Going back to his only goal, in Turkey against Bursaspor, was clearly a moment where you knew why Ferguson signed him. A stunning strike from outside of the box showed his potential, something Newcastle fans will hopefully see in abundance this season.

This season we have seen Obertan a few times, with many positive performances. His pace didn’t seem affected in the soaring heat of Chicago and even got on the score sheet in the 7-0 win at Seattle. As well as scoring, Obertan also chipped in with a few assists, a valuable asset as a winger. As a Manchester United fan I, as well as others wish the best of luck to Gabriel who simply wasn’t to a United standard.

Moving onto the present, his move to Newcastle United for again, £3 million. After describing Newcastle as a “big club,” he’s already won the fans over on that respect, surely? (it’s not a big club; it’s just got a big support.) This move can only be good for his career as it’s clearly he now as a burning desire to “prove a point,” after much of the media describing the Frenchmen as a “flop.”

So, what can Newcastle fans expect from Gabriel? This is something, to a certain degree; I can’t answer fully as I’m not a massive follower of the Manchester United reserve team, where Obertan played most of his football. Firstly, with someone wanting to prove his point you get the impression Gabriel will give 100% every game, something Newcastle fans like with Jonas on the other wing. His pace is his main attribute but he isn’t much of a crosser, expect a few step-overs then to cut inside. He’s very hit and miss and at times you’ll get frustrated with Gabriel as you know there’s about him.

To briefly conclude, Gabriel is a raw talent that needs fine tuning. A 5 year deal is a risk to a certain degree but I hope Obertan rejuvenates his career at the Toon as I’m sure the fantastic support will get behind him.

Thanks for reading,

Footylad.