Eta Achieves Milestone As First Female Manager Of A Men’s Team In Europe’s Premier Leagues
Marie-Louise Eta assumes interim leadership at Union Berlin following the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart, marking a historic moment as the first female manager in Bundesliga history.
Marie-Louise Eta has made history as the first woman to lead a men’s team in one of Europe’s top five leagues, following her appointment as interim head coach of Union Berlin for the remainder of the season.
The club based in Berlin, which has made its mark in the Bundesliga in recent years, has ended its association with Steffen Baumgart after a disappointing streak of results, highlighted by a 3-1 defeat to FC Heidenheim.
Union currently occupies the 11th position in the table, having secured only two victories in 14 league matches in 2026. Their status in the top flight remains precarious, with only a few games left to play.
Eta made history as the Bundesliga’s first female assistant coach in 2023 and also led the team from the touchline in 2024 while stepping in for Nenad Bjelica.
A former Germany youth international and Women’s Champions League winner, she expressed confidence that the team can unite and gather the necessary points to stay in the league, as her appointment signifies another important achievement for women in football.
