Bundesliga: Marie-Louise Eta makes history as first woman to lead men’s team
Marie-Louise Eta has etched her name in football history after being appointed interim head coach of Union Berlin, becoming the first woman to manage a men’s side in one of Europe’s top five leagues.
Her appointment follows the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart after Union Berlin’s 3-1 defeat to FC Heidenheim. Eta will lead the team until the end of the season as the club looks to stabilise its campaign.
Currently sitting 11th in the Bundesliga table, Union Berlin are 11 points clear of the relegation zone with five matches remaining. However, poor form has plagued the team, with just two wins in their last 14 league outings in 2026.
Club director of men’s football Horst Heldt said the decision to make a coaching change was driven by declining performances and the need for a fresh approach.
“We have had a hugely disappointing second half of the season. The performances in recent weeks do not give us confidence that we can turn things around with the current set-up,” Heldt said.
Eta is no stranger to breaking barriers. She became Union Berlin’s first female assistant coach in November 2023 and made headlines again in January 2024 when she led the team from the touchline during a Bundesliga match while then-manager Nenad Bjelica was suspended.
A former German youth international and a UEFA Women’s Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam, Eta has also been serving as Union Berlin’s U19 coach since July 2025. She is expected to take over as the club’s women’s head coach in the summer.
Reacting to her appointment, Eta acknowledged the task ahead, noting that the club’s Bundesliga status is not yet mathematically secure.
“I am delighted the club has entrusted me with this challenging task. I am convinced we will secure the crucial points needed,” she said.
Despite the pressure, the club says fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Union Berlin spokesperson Jacob Sweetman revealed that support for Eta has been “almost unanimous.”
Eta’s appointment adds to a growing list of women breaking into men’s football management, following pioneers like Carolina Morace, Corinne Diacre, and Hannah Dingley.
With the season entering a decisive phase, all eyes will be on Eta as she looks to guide Union Berlin to safety and further cement her place in football history.
