Ernst Tanner Suspended Without Pay Through June 2026
Major League Soccer (MLS) announced on Monday that it has suspended Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner without pay through 1 June 2026. Tanner has been under investigation since mid-November following wide-ranging allegations of misconduct during his tenure at the Union.
“Based on new information obtained during outside counsel’s independent review, the investigation substantiated violations of policies and standards of professional conduct required of League and Club leadership,”the league stated in a communication to .
MLS further indicated that Tanner must complete a league-approved restorative practices program prior to reinstatement. However, the league did not disclose specific details regarding the substantiated misconduct allegations against Tanner.
Background of Investigations
The most recent investigation into Tanner was led by the law firm Littler Mendelson and represents the league’s second inquiry into allegations against the executive. Earlier, Tanner was investigated following a complaint filed by the MLS Players Association (MLSPA) in early 2023, which alleged multiple instances of racist, sexist, and homophobic behavior. Those initial allegations were not substantiated by the league.
’s reporting later revealed additional allegations and corroborated several claims from the MLSPA’s complaint. Following this report, MLS reopened the investigation and appointed outside counsel to lead the inquiry.
Tanner has consistently denied all allegations, stating in November that he would fully cooperate with the league as he
“works to clear my good name and reputation.”
Investigation Challenges and Witness Participation
reported that the reopened investigation encountered challenges related to some potential witnesses being bound by non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). The Philadelphia Union and Littler Mendelson assured that anyone wishing to speak with league investigators would be permitted to
“fully participate”in the investigation without fear of legal repercussions.
Tanner’s Leave and Public Appearances
Sources indicated last month that Tanner has spent much of his leave overseas. On 17 February, Union owner Richie Graham posted two photos on his publicly accessible Instagram account featuring Tanner alongside several business associates. At that time, Tanner remained under league investigation and was prohibited from working for the Union.
A Union spokesperson told ,
“The [Union] had no knowledge of or involvement in this personal trip. It was not connected to club business operations or any official team activity.”
Comparison to Bruce Arena Suspension
A source familiar with the investigation and its outcome noted on Monday that the length of Tanner’s suspension closely parallels the suspension imposed on former New England Revolution head coach Bruce Arena in 2023. Arena was accused of making
“inappropriate and insensitive”comments during his tenure with the Revolution. He has since been appointed head coach of the San Jose Earthquakes. Like Tanner, Arena was required to complete a league-approved restorative practices process.
Details on Suspension and Pay
The same source informed that Tanner’s suspension without pay commenced on Monday. It remains unclear whether Tanner received pay during the investigation period itself. The source clarified that the leave was ordered by the Union, not MLS.
MLS Commitment to Respect and Accountability
MLS emphasized its dedication to fostering an environment of respect, inclusion, and accountability. The league stated,
“MLS is committed to fostering an environment of respect, inclusion, and accountability. We will continue working to ensure our clubs reflect those principles at every level of the organization.”
Philadelphia Union’s On-Field Performance
On the field, the Philadelphia Union have struggled, becoming the first team in MLS history to start a season winless in their opening four matches after having recorded the league’s best record the previous year.
