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

In a groundbreaking move, Marie-Louise Eta has taken the reins as Union Berlin's new head coach, becoming the first female to hold this position in the top five European leagues. Eta, who will lead the women's team next season, has been tasked with securing the men's team's survival in the Bundesliga for the remaining five games. With her previous experience as the first female assistant coach in the Bundesliga and top European leagues, Eta is poised to make a lasting impact. Union sporting director Horst Heldt expressed his delight at Eta's appointment, stating that she will take on the role on an interim basis before assuming her position as head coach of the women's first team. Eta replaced Steffen Baumgart, who was let go following the team's 3-1 loss to Heidenheim. England manager Sarina Wiegman praised Eta's appointment, calling her a trailblazer and a testament to football's progress. Eta's journey is not an isolated incident, as Sabrina Wittmann, the first woman to coach a men's team in Germany's top three divisions, has also paved the way for female coaches in the sport. Wittmann, who was appointed head coach of Ingolstadt in 2024, reflected on her experience, stating that she was initially afraid of closing the door for other women but has since found success and support within the club.