Marie-Louise Eta Makes History as First Female Head Coach in Top European Leagues

Marie-Louise Eta has made history by becoming the first female head coach in the top five European men's leagues, taking the reins at Union Berlin. Eta, who will lead the women's team next season, has been appointed on an interim basis to guide the men's team through their remaining five games. She previously made history in 2023 as the first woman to serve as an assistant coach in the Bundesliga and the top divisions of Europe's major leagues. Union sporting director Horst Heldt expressed his delight at Eta's appointment, stating that she will take over as head coach of the women's first team as planned in the summer. Eta replaces Steffen Baumgart, who was fired after the team's 3-1 loss to Heidenheim. With five games left, Eta is confident that the team will secure the necessary points to stay in the Bundesliga, citing the club's ability to come together in challenging situations. Her appointment is seen as a milestone for women in football, following in the footsteps of Sabrina Wittmann, who became the first woman to manage a men's team in Germany's top three divisions in 2024. Wittmann, who is still coaching Ingolstadt, reflects on the weight of responsibility she felt when she took the job and the support she received from the club and players.