Philadelphia Union has reached a new agreement with Norwegian center back Jakob Glesnes, extending his contract through 2027 with an option for 2028. The club announced the deal on August 19, 2025.
“Jakob has been a reliable presence and an essential part of our defensive line 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 had a significant impact. We are happy to have reached an agreement to keep him in Philadelphia in the coming years.”
Glesnes joined Philadelphia Union in 2020 and has since become a three-time MLS All-Star (2022, 2023, 2025), making him second in club history for most All-Star selections. He was named MLS Defender of the Year in 2022, becoming the only player from the club to receive this honor. So far in the 2025 season, Glesnes has made 24 appearances—23 as a starter—logging nearly two thousand minutes on the field. His contributions have helped Philadelphia Union maintain one of Major League Soccer’s best defensive records; currently, they lead the league for fewest goals allowed with just 25 conceded.
This season, Glesnes also provided two assists and scored once against DC United. He reached his 200th start across all competitions during a match against Chicago Fire FC on June 25.
Before joining Philadelphia Union, Glesnes played for Stromsgodset Toppfotball in Norway’s top division.
The transaction extends Glesnes’ tenure with Philadelphia Union until at least 2027, with an additional year possible under club option.
