Philadelphia Union's sporting director on leave after allegations of misconduct

CHESTER, Pa. (WPVI) -- Philadelphia Union's sporting director was placed on administrative leave on Wednesday after a British newspaper published allegations of racist, sexist and homophobic behavior.

Ernst Tanner, who has held the position since 2018, faces accusations reported by The Guardian on Tuesday. The article claims Tanner said "women don't belong in men's soccer" in reference to a Major League Soccer referee.

The article alleges he spoke about Black players "like they were subhuman," and suggested Black referees lacked intelligence. The paper also outlined allegations that Tanner inappropriately touched a co-worker multiple times.

Major League Soccer said it previously investigated Tanner after concerns were raised by the players' association and was unable to substantiate the allegations.

However, on Wednesday, the MLS posted a statement to X that read in part, "Following the publication of the Guardian article that included new allegations and potentially new information, MLS will reopen the investigation."

The Union issued its own statement minutes later saying, "The Union has placed Mr. Tanner on administrative leave during the investigation. Throughout the process, our top priority remains the well-being of our players, fans, staff and community."

The allegations surfaced as the Union recently won the Supporters' Shield for the best regular-season record. The team is scheduled to host the conference semifinals on Sunday against New York City.

Late Wednesday, Mark Geiger, the general manager of the Professional Referee Organization, said in a statement to Action News, "If these remarks are proven to be true, we are appalled. Such comments - and any form of discriminatory language - are deeply irresponsible, wholly inappropriate, and have no place in our game or in society."

Tanner's attorney denied the allegations. The Union has not provided further comment.