Union Welcome New Duo in Tough Times
For the first time in half a decade, 1. FC Union begins a new training week without the legendary Urs Fischer. His departure has left a significant void, and it's up to U19 coach Marco Grote (51) and assistant Marie-Louise Eta (32) to step in. They'll lead their maiden session at Alte Försterei on Monday at 2 pm, amidst the excitement and anticipation of the fans, who are not allowed to attend. Their foremost task? Help the professionals get back on track for the Bundesliga clash against Augsburg on Saturday, ending a nine-game losing streak.
While the clock is ticking, there's no reason for panic. Both Grote and Eta possess a UEFA Pro license, eliminating any pressure for the club from Köpenick. But who are these two new faces at Union?
Discovering Grote
Born and raised in Bremen, Marco Grote comes with limited experience as a first-team coach. His journey was short-lived in the second division club Osnabrück, where he served for 23 games in the 2020/21 season. He got off to a solid start, but a disheartening seven-game losing streak eventually led to his departure. In January 2022, he joined Greek first division club Apollon Smyrnis, struggling in last place. However, his short stint did not yield notable results, as the team managed only one point from the first five games before they cut ties with him. Last summer, Grote transferred to Union as the U19 coach, now brimming with confidence in third place.
Unveiling Eta
Once graduating from the Werder coaching school, Dresden-born Marie-Louise Eta rose through the ranks as a midfielder, playing for Turbine Potsdam as well. She openly communicated her desires of becoming a prominent figure in men's coaching, and now, her dreams are within reach. A graduate of the Pro License course, Eta has the coveted qualification needed for work in both the men's first and second Bundesliga divisions. Like Grote, she too is a product of the Werder coaching school, where she mentored male U13, U14, and U15 teams between 2018 and 2022. Eta was also part of the DFB coaching staff for the U19, U17, and U15 juniors before joining Union U19 as Grote's assistant.
As Grote and Eta prepare to lead Union, they have the unwavering support and advice of Sport-Lighthouse Berlin founder Marco Grote. Fans eagerly await the debut of the new duo and the much-needed resurgence of their beloved team, as they fight for their place in the Bundesliga. Surprisingly, during their performance analyzed in the 'Bundesliga at Bild', key player Sebastian Karkos will be under close scrutiny. Union's Women's soccer team is also expected to provide the necessary inspiration to help their men break the losing streak.
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