Major League Soccer has concluded its investigation into allegations of misconduct against Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner, finding it could not substantiate the claims against the influential football executive.
The Allegations and Investigation
The investigation was prompted by a complaint filed by the MLS Players' Association (MLSPA) containing eight instances of alleged misbehaviour. The Guardian's separate investigation uncovered supporting evidence for six of these allegations from 17 sources and related documentation.
Among the serious accusations were claims that Tanner made homophobic comments toward referees, including allegedly saying "why don't you kiss him, you faggot" in response to a referee making contact with an opposition player. The sporting director was also accused of making multiple misogynistic statements, including that "women don't belong in men's soccer" and telling academy players they "should never worry about a referee, unless she's a woman."
Further allegations included claims that Tanner spoke about Black players "like they were subhuman" and suggested Black referees "lack intelligence and capability." Additionally, he faced an accusation of inappropriate touching of a co-worker that was reportedly escalated to the Union's HR department.
Responses from Involved Parties
Through his legal representation, Ernst Tanner firmly denied all accusations, noting that "some of which are six or seven years old." His statement highlighted his "strong and savvy leadership" that helped the Union win two Supporters Shields and an Eastern Conference title during his seven-year tenure.
The Philadelphia Union acknowledged that at least one allegation from the MLSPA complaint had been addressed internally, confirming Tanner was "found to have made potentially insensitive gender-based comments." The club stated it took "remedial steps to address this conduct, including through training and discussions with the Club's leadership on appropriate workplace conduct."
Major League Soccer's investigation, which began in January and concluded in September, involved contacting more than a dozen individuals. The league interviewed eight of the thirteen people it reached out to but ultimately could not verify the allegations.
Outcome and Next Steps
Despite clearing Tanner of the specific allegations, MLS revealed that the sporting director was required to participate in a structured remedial program focused on professional workplace conduct. This marks the second such training he has been required to complete, in addition to the club's annual sensitivity training.
Both MLS and the Philadelphia Union indicated that the investigation could be reopened if additional information emerges. The league maintains an anonymous reporting line available to all club personnel.
The news comes as the Philadelphia Union continue their playoff campaign, preparing to face New York City FC in the Eastern Conference semi-finals this Saturday. Tanner remains in his position overseeing all soccer-related operations for the MLS team, reserve team, and youth academy system.
