Marie-Louise Eta: Pioneering the Bundesliga as Union Berlin's First Female Head Coach
Union Berlin has made history by appointing Marie-Louise Eta as the first female head coach in the Bundesliga. This groundbreaking move comes after the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart, with Eta stepping in on an interim basis for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.\n## A New Chapter for Union Berlin and Women in Football \\[Eta, who is 34 years old, was already serving as the assistant coach for the first team. She brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to her new role.]\\\Union Berlin currently sits 11th in the Bundesliga, seven points clear of the relegation play-off spot occupied by St. Pauli. Eta expressed her gratitude and confidence in the club's ability to stay united and secure crucial points in the remaining matches.\\\ Marie-Louise Eta becomes the first female head coach in the Bundesliga. She will lead Union Berlin on an interim basis until the end of the 2025/26 season. The club is currently 11th in the Bundesliga, seven points clear of the relegation play-off place. Eta's appointment is a significant milestone for women in football. Her experience and leadership are expected to guide the team through the rest of the season.\\\### A Journey of Resilience and Growth \\[Union Berlin's journey to the top flight of German football is a story of resilience. Founded in 1906, the club faced near-bankruptcy in 1997 but was saved by its supporters and sponsors. Since reaching the Bundesliga in 2019, the team has achieved unexpected success, including a Champions League qualification.]\\\Dirk Zingler, the club's president since 2004, has been instrumental in promoting women in key roles. In 2023, Eta was promoted to the role of number two in the technical staff, making her the first woman to hold such a position in the Bundesliga and Champions League.\\\ Union Berlin's rise to the Bundesliga and Champions League is a testament to the club's resilience. Dirk Zingler's leadership has been pivotal in promoting women in key roles. Eta's promotion to the technical staff in 2023 was a significant step.\\\### Learning from the Best \\[Eta's career took a significant turn in 2022 when she was one of 16 selected, and the only woman, to participate in the DFB's professional coaching course. During this time, she had the opportunity to learn from Jürgen Klopp, gaining valuable insights into leadership and coaching.]\\\In an interview, Eta shared her admiration for Klopp's approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of leading the staff, understanding the bigger picture, and knowing when to step back or step in. These lessons have undoubtedly shaped her coaching philosophy and prepared her for the challenges ahead.\\\ Eta was one of 16, and the only woman, selected for the DFB's professional coaching course. She learned valuable lessons from Jürgen Klopp about leadership and coaching. These experiences have shaped her coaching philosophy.\\\### From Player to Trailblazer \\[Eta's playing career, though brief, was marked by success. She played for clubs like Turbine Potsdam, Hamburg, and Werder Bremen, winning three league titles and the Champions League. Her playing career ended at 26 due to injuries, but she transitioned seamlessly into coaching.]\\\After her interim role with the men's team, Eta plans to return to women's football, but her impact as a trailblazer will be felt for years to come. Her appointment at Union Berlin is not just a personal achievement but a significant step forward for women in football.\\\ Eta's playing career included stints with Turbine Potsdam, Hamburg, and Werder Bremen. She won three league titles and the Champions League. Her playing career ended at 26 due to injuries, but she transitioned into coaching.\\\Source: OneFootball (https://onefootball.com/en/news/the-story-of-marie-louise-eta-the-bundesligas-first-female-head-coach-42705641)
— Editorial Team
