Union Berlin appoints Marie-Louise Eta as interim coach, marking a historic milestone.
BERLIN — Union Berlin has appointed Marie-Louise Eta, the Bundesliga’s first female assistant coach, as head coach to succeed the dismissed Steffen Baumgart and ensure the team’s survival in the Bundesliga.
Baumgart, along with his assistants Danilo de Souza and Kevin McKenna, was relieved of his duties following the team’s 3-1 defeat against last-placed Heidenheim on Saturday, as announced by Union just before midnight.
Eta, who was previously coaching the under-19 squad and has agreed to take over Union’s women’s team, had a comparable experience in 2024 when she stepped in as assistant coach for suspended head coach Nenad Bjelica for three matches. She became the first woman to lead a men’s team in the Bundesliga.
Earlier that season, she made history as the first female assistant coach in the Bundesliga and among the top leagues in Europeβs major five divisions.
“I am pleased that Marie Louise Eta has accepted this interim role before she takes on the head coach position for the women’s first team as planned in the summer,” Union sporting director Horst Heldt stated.
Baumgart, a former player for Union, was appointed during the winter break of the 2024-25 season, but Heldt indicated that recent performances necessitated the club’s decisive action.
“The second half of the season has been completely disappointing, and we cannot be misled by the table — our situation is still precarious, and we urgently need points to maintain our league status.”
The loss in Heidenheim left Union in 11th place in the 18-team league, only seven points above St. Pauli in the relegation zone with five matches remaining.
“With only two wins from 14 games since the winter break and the recent performances, we lack the confidence that we can improve with the current setup. Therefore, we have opted for a fresh start,” Heldt remarked.
Union will next face Wolfsburg, who are also battling for survival, in their upcoming match next weekend.
