Union Berlin break barriers as Eta takes charge of first team
Union Berlin have appointed Marie-Louise Eta as interim head coach of their men’s first team
Union Berlin have appointed Marie-Louise Eta as interim head coach of their men’s first team, making her the first woman in Bundesliga history to take on the role.
She replaces Steffen Baumgart and steps into the position at a crucial moment in the season, with the team fighting to remain in the top division following their recent defeat to Heidenheim.
Immediate challenge ahead
Eta, 34, had been coaching the club’s youth team and will now take charge for the final five matches of the season.
Her main objective will be to secure Union Berlin’s survival in the Bundesliga. After this period, she is set to become head coach of the club’s women’s team.
In her first remarks, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity and confidence in the squad’s ability to achieve the goal.
A historic milestone
Eta had already broken ground in 2023 by becoming the first woman to be part of a coaching staff in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
Before coaching, she had a playing career with clubs such as BV Cloppenburg and Werder Bremen, and was part of Germany’s U-17 team that won the European title in 2008.
Her appointment marks a significant milestone in European football, breaking new ground for women in top-level men’s football.
