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Major League Soccer announced Monday that it has suspended Philadelphia Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner without pay until June 1, and that Tanner “must successfully complete a league-approved restorative practices program” before he can be reemployed by the league.
MLS’s decision came after completing its investigation into allegations of inappropriate workplace behavior that were reported by The Guardian last November.
“Based on new information obtained during outside counsel’s independent review, the investigation substantiated violations of MLS policies and standards of professional conduct required of league and club leadership,” the league’s statement read.
Tanner had been placed on administrative leave by the Union after MLS reopened its investigation into the allegations that he often used racist, sexist and homophobic language and made repeated inappropriate physical contact with a staff member.
The league’s initial investigation ended with it unable to corroborate the allegations against Tanner. Even so, it required him to participate in a program addressing professional workplace conduct.
The Guardian’s reporting outlined six of the eight MLS Players Association’s allegations made against Tanner, as well as other incidents during his seven years with the Union, and claimed to speak with 17 unidentified sources, including current and former Union employees.
“Based on the findings from Major League Soccer’s investigation, the Philadelphia Union supports the league’s disciplinary action and restorative practices program for Sporting Director Ernst Tanner,” the club responded in its own statement. “The Union will evaluate the best and appropriate structure for the organization following the disciplinary process.”
The Union told the Guardian that Tanner had also undergone workplace conduct training earlier in his time with the club.
“I regret the impact that this situation has had on the Philadelphia Union organization and its supporters.” Tanner said in his statement provided by the Union. “I remain proud of my work with the Philadelphia Union and look forward to my return and future work with the team.”
Tanner, from Germany, joined the club in 2018 as its second-ever sporting director, the top position for soccer operations. Since his arrival, the club has won two MLS Supporters’ Shield titles. In 2022, Tanner was named MLS Sporting Executive of the Year. He denied the allegations when the investigation was reopened in November.
The team’s Director of Academy and Professional Development John Scheer is serving as interim sporting director.
Both MLS and the Union said they are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment at every level.
