Larry Henry Jr
Jakob Glesnes has certainly become a fan favorite with the Philadelphia Union and the Norwegian defender isn’t going anywhere for the time being.
The Union announced Wednesday that Glesnes was signed to a new, long-term contract through 2024. Glesnes was stellar for the Union in 2021, being nominated for MLS Defender of the Year, and also helping the club reach a first-ever Eastern Conference Final.
“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,” said Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner. “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.”
List your favorite Jakob Glesnes moments. I’ll start:
ALL OF ‘EM⚡⚡⚡ pic.twitter.com/kn0JPtiJnc
— PhilaUnion (@PhilaUnion) December 8, 2021
The 27-year-old was acquired from Norwegian top-flight side Stromsgodset in 2020 and since has jumped into a starting role in Jim Curtin’s backline. Glesnes was the only Union player to play every minute of every match this season, becoming the seventh player in club history to do so, and one of only five players in the league do to so this year.
Glesnes scored three goals and logged two assists, including the game-winner against the New York Red Bulls in the MLS Cup Playoffs. Additionally, Glesnes was named to Concacaf’s Best XI twice during this season’s competition and also was named to MLS Team of the Week on three occasions. The 6-foot-2 centerback is well known for his long-range shooting ability, which was on display in both of his seasons with the club.
The Union will head into the 2022 MLS season as one of the favorites in the East after continuing a positive growth under Curtin as head coach.
You can follow Larry Henry on Twitter (@lhenry019) and e-mail him at [email protected].
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