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, marking a historic first for women in the top five European men's leagues. Eta, who will also coach the women's team next season, has been tasked with securing the men's team's Bundesliga survival in the remaining five games. Her appointment follows her trailblazing role as the first female 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 interim 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 let go after the team's 3-1 loss to Heidenheim. The new coach is confident that the team will secure the necessary points to avoid relegation, citing Union's ability to come together in challenging situations. England manager Sarina Wiegman praised Eta's appointment, calling her a 'trailblazer' and a sign of football's progress. Meanwhile, Sabrina Wittmann, the first woman to coach a men's team in Germany's top three divisions, reflected on her own experiences and the weight of responsibility that comes with being a female coach in a male-dominated sport.