Major League Soccer has taken the dramatic step of reopening an investigation into Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner following serious allegations of racist, sexist and inappropriate behaviour during his seven-year tenure with the club.
Administrative Leave Amid Fresh Scrutiny
The Philadelphia Union confirmed on Wednesday that they have placed Ernst Tanner on administrative leave after MLS decided to revisit previously dismissed complaints. This development comes despite an initial investigation that concluded in January failing to substantiate the allegations against the German sporting director.
In an official statement, the club revealed: 'While a recent MLS investigation was unable to corroborate allegations involving Sporting Director Ernst Tanner, MLS has advised the Union that it will be reopening the investigation and the Union continues to cooperate fully.'
Shocking Allegations Surface
According to documents obtained by The Guardian, the MLS Players Association filed a comprehensive complaint detailing multiple instances of alleged misconduct since Tanner's arrival in 2018. The report claims seventeen different sources have come forward with accusations against the sporting director.
Among the most disturbing allegations are claims that Tanner discussed Black players 'like they were subhuman' and stated that Black officials 'lack intelligence and capability'. The complaint also alleges multiple misogynistic comments, including the assertion that 'women don't belong in men's soccer'.
In one particularly explosive incident detailed in the report, Tanner allegedly told an official who was making contact with an opponent: 'Why don't you kiss him, you f****t'.
Unwanted Contact and HR Concerns
The allegations extend to physical misconduct, with claims that Tanner inappropriately touched a co-worker 'numerous times'. This behaviour was reportedly brought to the attention of the Union's human resources department, though sources expressed concerns about the effectiveness of internal reporting procedures.
An anonymous source told The Guardian: 'I know many people feel that stuff that has gone to HR has a way of getting buried. Everybody always said, 'Guys, all you can do is report things to HR.' But sometimes it felt like anyone who reported s*** to our HR department just ended up getting pushed out.'
MLS Response and Previous Findings
MLS initially concluded its investigation in January, stating that after reviewing all available information and documentation, they were unable to substantiate the allegations. However, the league acknowledged that several individuals had participated anonymously while others declined to cooperate.
Despite the initial findings, MLS required Tanner to participate in a structured remedial program focused on professional workplace conduct. The decision to reopen the investigation follows The Guardian's publication of new allegations and potentially fresh information.
MLS maintains an anonymous reporting hotline and has encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Tanner's Defence and Career History
Ernst Tanner has categorically denied all allegations against him. Through his legal representatives, he stated: 'Ernst Tanner firmly denies these accusations. Some of which are six or seven years old. Over the past seven years as the sporting director of the Philadelphia Union, Mr Tanner's strong and savvy leadership has helped the Union win two Supporters Shields and an Eastern Conference title.'
His legal team provided evidence of five statements from current and former colleagues asserting that Tanner 'fostered an inclusive environment'. The Union organisation itself acknowledged that one MLSPA complaint had been addressed internally, confirming that Tanner was 'found to have made potentially insensitive gender-based comments'.
Prior to joining Philadelphia Union in 2018, Tanner built his reputation working with European clubs including TSV 1860 Munich, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim and Red Bull Salzburg. His most recent role before moving to MLS was as Academy and Youth Football Head at RB Salzburg from 2012-2018. In 2022, his achievements were recognised when he was named MLS Sporting Executive of the Year.
The reopening of this investigation places additional scrutiny on both Tanner and the Philadelphia Union organisation as they navigate these serious allegations while attempting to maintain their competitive standing in Major League Soccer.
