Union Berlin Parts Ways with Head Coach Baumgart and Makes History by Appointing Female Interim

As per the words of Horst Heldt, the managing director of men’s professional football, cited on the club’s official website, the decision stemmed from an “utterly disappointing second half of the season.”

“We desperately need points to secure our position in the league,” Heldt declared, emphasising the club’s priorities. He no longer holds faith that a “turnaround can be realised with the current setup.”

Marie Louise Eta Makes History

For the time being, Marie Louise Eta will step into the role on the sidelines as the interim head coach. Currently overseeing the U19 squad, she is set to lead the women’s team in the upcoming summer.

“I’m delighted that Marie Louise Eta has agreed to take up this role on an interim basis,” stated Heldt.

In doing so, Eta becomes the first female head coach of a first team in a top-tier European league, albeit temporarily.

Eta expressed her optimism about the club’s future: “I’m thankful that the club has placed their trust in me for this challenging role.

“Union has always thrived on unity and mobilising our resources during tough times. I firmly believe that we’ll be able to secure the vital points with this team.”

Baumgart returned to Berlin in January 2025; the former striker had a stint with the Eisernen from 2002 to 2004. By the halfway mark of the season, Union found themselves in ninth place with 23 points, but since the winter break, Baumgart’s team has only managed to add another nine points to their tally.