Marie-Louise Eta makes history as first woman to coach men's team in Europe

History has been made in European football as Marie-Louise Eta becomes the first woman to manage a men’s team in both the Bundesliga and across Europe’s top five leagues.

The 34-year-old has been appointed as the head coach of Union Berlin following the club’s 3-1 defeat to TSG Hoffenheim, a result that led to the dismissal of former coach Stefan Baumgart.

Eta’s appointment marks a significant milestone, not just in Germany but across global football, as she breaks barriers in a traditionally male-dominated space.

A former professional footballer, Eta represented Germany at international level and played for clubs including Hamburger SV and Werder Bremen.

She also boasts experience at the highest level of women’s club football, having won the UEFA Women's Champions League.

Her rise in coaching has been equally groundbreaking. In 2023, she became the first woman to serve as an assistant coach in the Bundesliga, a move that drew widespread praise across the football world.

Now in 2026, she has taken an even bigger step, leading a men’s team at the elite level.

Eta is expected to take charge of Union Berlin for the remainder of the season, with five matches left to play.

While her appointment has been widely celebrated as a landmark moment, it also comes with intense scrutiny and high expectations.

PAH/JE