Philadelphia Union’s Jakob Glesnes to undergo surgery amidst MLS Cup Playoffs

The Philadelphia Union’s 3-1 victory on Saturday night left fans in high spirits, but the post-game atmosphere took a more somber turn as Head Coach Jim Curtin provided an update on Jakob Glesnes, the team’s resilient center back.

Curtin revealed that Glesnes is slated for surgery, scheduled for Tuesday, acknowledging the severity of his condition. “To our fans, he’s played through one of the more painful injuries you can have in this sport because the kicking and everything that goes along with playing the center back position. He’s played through as much pain as he possibly can,” Curtin shared, highlighting Glesnes’ unwavering commitment to the team.

Curtin on Glesnes: "Unfortunately it's gotten to the point where Jakob will have to have surgery." Curtin says surgery is Tuesday.

— Philadelphia Soccer Now (@phlsoccernow) October 28, 2023

The media first caught wind of Glesnes’ groin injury in September, a challenging revelation given that he had just celebrated a remarkable milestone of 100 consecutive starts in MLS Regular season play. Since the initial disclosure, Glesnes has been in and out of the lineup, with his status fluctuating day-to-day.

Curtin says he'll never rule him out but will take weeks.

— Philadelphia Soccer Now (@phlsoccernow) October 28, 2023

Curtin, while discussing the anticipated timeline for Glesnes’ recovery, estimated it would “take a few weeks.” He took a moment to commend Glesnes’ fortitude, stating, “He’s about as tough as it gets, he’s a true Viking and he wants to be out there but sometimes your body tells you and you have to listen. He wants to get back to MLS Cup and be with the guys but he has to do that now basically as a coach with me on the sideline.”

As the Union prepare for the next challenge in their playoff journey, they will carry Glesnes’ fighting spirit with them. The team is set to face the New England Revolution in Foxboro, Mass for Game 2 of the best-of-three playoff series on Wednesday, November 8th.