November 21 – The 2025 Supporters Shield Champions, Philadelphia Union, announced Wednesday that sporting director Ernst Tanner has been placed on administrative leave as Major League Soccer reopens an investigation into allegations of inappropriate workplace behaviour.
UK newspaper, The Guardian, alleged Tanner used racist language toward Black players, coaches, and referees, and also made sexist and anti-gay remarks. The allegations were originally brought to the league through an MLS Players Association MLSPA complaint.
“The Philadelphia Union takes all allegations of misconduct extremely seriously and is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone associated with our club. Discrimination, harassment, or abusive conduct of any kind has no place here, and all staff are required to complete annual sensitivity training,” the Union said in a statement.
The club added that although a prior MLS investigation did not corroborate the claims, “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. Throughout this process, our top priority remains the well-being of our players, fans, staff, and community.”
MLS originally closed the case after interviewing more than a dozen current and former players and staff. Many spoke anonymously, and the league said it could not substantiate the allegations. Tanner was still required to complete a remedial workplace conduct programme. With new allegations surfacing, the league will now take a second look.
“MLS maintains an anonymous reporting hotline and encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward,” the league said.
Tanner, who joined the Union in 2018 and signed an extension in 2021, remains on administrative leave while the investigation continues.
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