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. She will initially serve as interim head coach for the remaining five games of the season before transitioning to her planned role as head coach of the women's first team in the summer. Eta previously made history in 2023 as the first woman to hold an assistant coaching position in the Bundesliga and the top divisions of Europe's major leagues. Union Berlin's sporting director, Horst Heldt, expressed his delight at Eta's appointment, stating that she will take on the role on an interim basis before her planned transition. Eta replaces Steffen Baumgart, who was let go along with his assistants following the team's 3-1 loss to Heidenheim. With five games remaining, Union Berlin is seven points clear of the relegation zone. England manager Sarina Wiegman praised Eta's appointment, calling her a trailblazer and a testament to football's progress. Sabrina Wittmann, the first woman to coach a men's team in Germany's top three divisions, also shared her thoughts on Eta's appointment, reflecting on her own experiences as a female coach in a male-dominated sport.