Union Berlin have made football history after appointing Marie-Louise Eta as their interim head coach until the end of the season, following the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart after the club’s 3-1 defeat to Heidenheim in the Bundesliga.
The decision marks a landmark moment not only for the German club but for world football, as Eta becomes the first woman ever to take charge of a men’s Bundesliga team.
The 34-year-old takes over immediately with Union Berlin in a difficult phase of the season, as they battle to stabilize results and avoid slipping further down the table. She is expected to lead the team for the remaining league fixtures as the club seeks a strong finish.
Eta is already a trailblazer in German football. She previously became:
- The first female assistant coach in Bundesliga history
- The first woman to sit on the bench for a men’s Bundesliga match
- Part of Union Berlin’s coaching setup since 2023, earning respect for her tactical role and leadership
This move places her at the helm of a top-flight men’s team in one of Europe’s strongest leagues.
