In a defining moment for European football, Bundesliga side Union Berlin has appointed Marie-Louise Eta (34) as its new head coach, making her the first woman to take charge of a men’s first team in a top-tier European league.
The historic decision follows Union Berlin’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to FC Heidenheim on Saturday, which prompted the club’s hierarchy to part ways with former head coach Steffen Baumgart. Eta, previously the club’s Under-19 head coach, has been promoted on an interim basis to lead the first team.
Union Berlin, currently sitting eleventh in the Bundesliga, acknowledged the urgency of the situation. While the club occupies a mid-table position, they remain only seven points above the relegation zone.
“We have had a very disappointing second half of the season so far, and we are not being misled by our position in the Bundesliga,” the club stated. “We are in a difficult position and urgently need points to secure our place in the league.”
General manager Horst Heldt added: “We no longer believe we can continue on the same path. I am delighted that Marie-Louise has agreed to take on this role on an interim basis before she becomes head coach of the professional women’s team in the summer, as planned.”
Eta made history once before in November 2023, when she became the Bundesliga’s first female assistant coach. She will now make her debut as head coach next week when Union Berlin host VfL Wolfsburg.
Among the players set to work under Eta is Ghanaian defender Derrick Kohn, who will play a key role as the club battles to secure its top-flight status.
Union Berlin has emphasized that while Eta’s appointment is initially interim, it represents an important step forward for diversity and leadership in professional football.