Major League Soccer has taken the significant step of reopening its investigation into Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner, just one day after The Guardian published a detailed exposé into his conduct. The Union have subsequently placed Tanner on administrative leave pending the outcome of the fresh inquiry.
Background of the Allegations
The controversy initially emerged in late January when the MLS Players Association (MLSPA) filed a formal complaint outlining numerous serious allegations against Tanner. The complaint included accusations of racist, sexist, and homophobic language, alongside claims of inappropriate physical contact with a staff member.
MLS had previously conducted an investigation into these matters, concluding in September that they were unable to corroborate the allegations. However, the league explicitly reserved the right to reopen the case should new evidence come to light.
The Guardian's Investigation Reveals New Evidence
The Guardian's comprehensive investigation, published on Tuesday, appears to have provided the catalyst for MLS's decision to revisit the case. Their report involved interviews with 17 individuals and reviewed materials that supported several claims against Tanner.
According to the publication's findings, six of the eight original MLSPA allegations against Tanner were supported by evidence, alongside additional claims not included in the initial complaint. These allegations span much of Tanner's seven-year tenure with the Philadelphia Union.
Through his legal representation, Tanner has firmly denied all accusations, noting that "some of which are six or seven years old."
Specific Allegations Under Scrutiny
The claims reported by The Guardian include several disturbing incidents. Tanner is alleged to have made multiple misogynistic comments, including stating that "women don't belong in men's soccer" regarding a female MLS referee. He reportedly told academy players they "should never worry about a referee, unless she's a woman."
Other serious allegations include:
- Directing a homophobic slur at an MLS referee in 2023
- Speaking about Black players "like they were subhuman" and suggesting Black referees "lack intelligence and capability"
- Inappropriately touching a co-worker "numerous times," leading to a report to the Union's HR department
- Hiring an underqualified coach who was allegedly abusive toward players on Philadelphia Union II
Previous Investigation and Current Status
During the initial MLS investigation, the league contacted 13 potential interview subjects, promising anonymity if required. Eight of these individuals, understood to be current and former players and employees, chose to speak with investigators. The Union stated they "fully cooperated" with this process.
Despite being unable to corroborate the allegations, MLS required Tanner to participate in a "structured remedial program focused on professional workplace conduct." The Union also revealed that Tanner had undergone training on appropriate workplace conduct earlier in his tenure after making "potentially insensitive gender-based comments."
In their statement regarding the reopened investigation, MLS said: "Following publication of a Guardian article that included new allegations and potentially new information, MLS will reopen the investigation. MLS maintains an anonymous reporting hotline and encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward."
The Philadelphia Union echoed this position, stating: "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. The Union has placed Mr Tanner on administrative leave during the investigation."
Tanner's Legacy and Current Context
Ernst Tanner is widely regarded as one of MLS's most successful executives. During his seven-year leadership, the Philadelphia Union won their first two trophies - the Supporters' Shield in both 2022 and 2025, awarded to the team with the highest point total in the league.
Under his guidance, the club has developed numerous players who have featured for the US national team, and their academy system has produced several players generating seven-figure transfer fees. In 2022, Tanner received the league's executive of the year award, underscoring his professional achievements.
The timing of this development is particularly sensitive as the Union are currently competing in the MLS playoffs, with an Eastern Conference semifinal match against NYC FC scheduled for Sunday evening.
