The Philadelphia Union have signed defender Jakob Glenses to a multi-year contract extension. 

This is well deserved for Glesnes, who had a breakout season and was nominated for MLS Defensive Player of the Year. He is most recently recognized for his fantastic goal that sent the Union to the Eastern Conference Semifinals. This deal goes through 2024, which means the Union will at least have the stud defender for a few more years. Here’s a statement from Union Sporting Director Ernst Turner following the extension. 

“In his first season with the Union, Jakob proved he was capable of becoming a top player in Major League Soccer and in his second season he has delivered on his promise and is now one of the best defenders in the league, his front-foot defense and ability to progress the ball out of defense have been crucial to the team’s success over the past two seasons, as the backline allowed the fewest goals in the league in 2020 and remained a top unit in 2021. His development on the pitch and natural leadership abilities have solidified the importance of keeping him in Philadelphia.”

Union Sporting Director Ernst Turner

Glesnes was the only Union player to play in every single minute this season, becoming the 7th player in Union history to do so. This season he recorded three goals and two assists. He was also named to the MLS Team of the Week in weeks four, eight, and twenty-seven. Glesnes signed with the Union in 2020. Before that, he played at Norwegian club, Stromsgodset Toppfotball.

In his first year with the Union, Glesnes played 19 matches and started 17. He helped contribute to history by being a part of the first team to win every home match in the regular season while allowing the fewest goals in MLS and club history. With the extension, the Union have secured a top piece of their backline as they look ahead to next season.

Mandatory Credit: Philadelphia Union