Marie-Louise Eta has made football history after being named interim head coach of Union Berlin, becoming the first woman to manage a men’s side in any of Europe’s top five leagues.

The Bundesliga club appointed Eta following the dismissal of former coach Steffen Baumgart after a disappointing run of results, including a 3–1 defeat to FC Heidenheim.

Union Berlin currently sit 11th in the Bundesliga table but have struggled for form in 2026, winning only two of their 14 league matches so far, leaving the club still needing points to secure safety before the season ends.

Eta is no stranger to breaking barriers. In 2023, she became the Bundesliga’s first female assistant coach, and in 2024 she also took charge from the touchline while deputising during the absence of former manager Nenad Bjelica.

A former Germany youth international and Women’s Champions League winner, Eta said she believes the squad can unite and earn the results needed to remain in the top flight, marking another milestone for women in elite football leadership.