Philadelphia Union have reached an agreement with defender Jakob Glesnes on a new contract that will keep him with the club through 2027, with an option for 2028. The Norwegian center back, who is 31 years old, has been recognized as a three-time MLS All-Star and was named the league’s Defender of the Year in 2022.
“Jakob has been a reliable presence and an essential piece of our backline that has contributed to the team’s success, earning well-deserved individual recognition along the way,” said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director, Ernst Tanner. “His dedication to our style of play has been vital to the team’s success and his emergence as a leader has made a significant impact. We’re happy to have come to an agreement to keep him in Philadelphia for the years ahead.”
Glesnes joined Philadelphia Union in 2020 after playing in Norway’s top division, Eliteserien, for Stromsgodset Toppfotball. Since joining Major League Soccer, he has appeared in three All-Star games (2022, 2023, 2025), which is second most in club history. In 2022, he became the only player from the club to win MLS Defender of the Year.
During the current season, Glesnes has played in 24 matches—starting 23—and logged nearly two thousand minutes on the field. He helped lead Philadelphia Union to one of Major League Soccer’s best defensive records this year; they currently rank first in fewest goals allowed with only 25 conceded. He also contributed offensively by providing two assists and scoring once against D.C. United. This season saw Glesnes reach his 200th start across all competitions during a match against Chicago Fire FC on June 25.
The new contract underscores Glesnes’ role as a key figure in maintaining Philadelphia Union’s defensive strength.
