Patrick Sobela

A seasoned campaigner in the French game, Patrick Sobela is a flanker with US Arlequins Perpignanais (USAP) in the Top 14. Born on 12 August 1992, the 33-year-old back-rower brings the experience and durability of a long career to a Perpignan side competing at the top level of French rugby. Sobela's value lies in the fundamentals of loose-forward play: a relentless work rate, strong defensive contributions and a persistent presence over the ball at the breakdown. Years in the professional game have honed his understanding of the contact area, and that know-how makes him a steadying influence within the USAP pack. In the physically demanding Top 14, where experience and resilience count for a great deal, Sobela offers leadership and consistency, shouldering the kind of unglamorous workload that underpins a team's defensive effort. As one of the more established figures in the squad, he provides both on-field reliability and a guiding example for younger forwards, remaining a dependable option in the heart of Perpignan's back row.