Awoniyi’s former club makes history: Union Berlin name first-ever woman coach in Europe's top 5 leagues

Union Berlin, the former club of Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, has made football history by appointing Marie-Louise Eta as head coach of their men’s team, the first woman to lead a top-flight side in Europe’s top five leagues.

The groundbreaking decision follows the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart after a disappointing defeat to Heidenheim, which ultimately proved to be the tipping point for the club’s hierarchy.

Eta, steps into the role on an interim basis as Union Berlin aim to secure their Bundesliga status for next season.

Despite currently sitting 11th in the table and holding an 11-point cushion above the relegation zone, the club has acted decisively to avoid any late-season collapse.

Speaking after her appointment, the 34-year-old expressed both pride and determination to lead the club.

She said, “I’m delighted that the club has entrusted me with this challenging responsibility. A strength of Union has always been to pull all our forces together in such situations. I’m convinced that with the team, we’ll secure the crucial points.”

Eta previously worked with Union Berlin’s U19 team and is already scheduled to become head coach of the club’s women’s team in the summer.

Union Berlin’s position in mid-table suggests safety, but mathematically, survival is not yet guaranteed. The club’s leadership clearly believes a fresh voice can stabilise performances in the final stretch of the campaign.

While women have previously managed men’s teams in lower divisions, this marks the first time a female coach has taken charge of a top-flight club in any of Europe’s top five leagues.

Notable pioneers include Corinne Diacre, who managed Clermont Foot in 2014, and Carolina Morace, who managed Viterbese in Italy's lower leagues.

Union Berlin holds special relevance for Nigerian fans. Taiwo Awoniyi rose to prominence before securing a move to the Premier League.

Awoniyi permanently rejoined the club on 20 July 2021. The German club reportedly paid £6.5 million for him before his transfer to Nottingham Forest in 2022.