CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 10: A fan waves the flag of Club America before the match against the Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park on March 10, 2026 in Chester, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Isaiah Vazquez/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA–Major League Soccer announced the suspension of Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner thru June 1st after an investigation determined that Mr. Tanner used sexist and anti-gay language in the workplace while also being reported for making racist comments about Black players, coaches and referees. The report revealed that the allegations were made in an MLS Player’s Association complaint to the league.
In a league statement, The league had reopened its investigation into allegations of inappropriate and insensitive comments on November 19th, 2025, following an investigation by The Guardian and Mr. Tanner was placed on administrative leave. 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.
According to an article on ESPN’s website, the league had previously conducted an investigation into the allegations but closed the case after failing to verify the initial claims. Since the release of The Guardian’s report from , however, the league announced the investigation would be reopened.
Mr. Tanner must also complete successfully complete a League-approved restorative practices program prior to being reinstated.
COMMENT: It’s been a brutal last few months for the Union after winning the top seed in the Eastern Conference last season, the club has since seen players like Tai Baribo (DC United), Kai Wagner (Birmingham City), Mikael Uhre (FC Midtjylland), and Jacob Glesnes (LA Galaxy) depart. The club has started this season 0-4-0 and will face Chicago Fire–the team they eliminated in the conference quarterfinals last season–at home on Saturday night.
Owner and club chairman Jay Sugarman now faces the question of whether to keep Tanner as well as how he will rebuild the club given everything that has happened so far. Actions need to be taken soon, or else faith in this club will sink in the Delaware River.
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