German side FC Union Berlin appointed Marie-Louise Eta as interim head coach of its men’s team until the end of the 2025-26 Bundesliga season.
The 34-year-old becomes the first woman to manage a men’s team in any of Europe’s top five leagues, shattering a longstanding barrier in the sport.
Eta steps into the role following the abrupt dismissal of Steffen Baumgart, whose tenure ended late Saturday night after a disappointing 3-1 defeat away to bottom-placed 1. FC Heidenheim. The loss left Union Berlin in 11th place, precariously positioned with just seven points separating them from the relegation play-off spot.
Club managing director Horst Heldt described the second half of the season as “absolutely disappointing,” emphasizing the urgent need for points to secure Bundesliga survival. Baumgart, a former Union player who had taken charge during the winter break, departs along with his assistants Danilo de Souza and Kevin McKenna.
A highly respected figure within the club, Eta has been part of Union’s coaching setup since 2023, initially serving as an assistant with the men’s first team and making history as the first woman in such a position in the Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League. She previously led the club’s U19 side to an unbeaten league title in the DFB Youth League and has held the UEFA Pro Licence. More recently, she coached Union’s women’s team before this latest promotion. Her deep knowledge of the squad and proven track record with youth and senior sides make her a logical, if trailblazing, choice for the interim role.
“This is a historic day for Union Berlin and for women’s football,” a club statement noted, underscoring Eta’s expertise and the faith placed in her leadership during a critical phase of the campaign. Eta will now oversee the remaining fixtures as Union fights to maintain its top-flight status, with the team’s gritty, resilient style under previous coaches potentially benefiting from her fresh perspective.
The appointment marks a significant leap forward for gender equality in football management. While women have increasingly taken on assistant and youth roles in men’s football, a full head coaching position in one of the continent’s elite leagues has long remained elusive.
Eta’s interim stint could pave the way for broader opportunities, challenging perceptions and inspiring the next generation of female coaches.Union Berlin fans and the wider football community will be watching closely as Eta prepares for her debut in the dugout. With the season entering its decisive weeks, all eyes are on whether this pioneering appointment can spark the turnaround the club desperately needs.
