Bremen's Women's Chief Praises Eta: "She Thrives in the Shark Tank"
Birte Brüggemann, the leader of Werder Bremen's women's soccer department, has lavished praise on Marie-Louise Eta, calling her an "unmatched coaching talent" and a "highly capable specialist." Brüggemann shared her thoughts with the German Press Agency (DPA), commending Eta's dedication and extensive knowledge of soccer tactics and training methodologies.
Brüggemann and Eta have a long history, having worked together at Werder Bremen. Brüggemann has overseen the women's soccer department since 2007, while Eta played for the team from 2014 to 2018. After retiring as a player, Eta took on coaching roles with Werder Bremen's U13 and U14 youth teams.
The fact that Eta has become the first female assistant coach in Bundesliga history five years later comes as no surprise to Brüggemann. "She's always been self-assured and determined, and she's always aimed to reach this high level in soccer. She's always had offers for women's soccer, but she made a conscious choice to dive into this males-dominated world," Brüggemann explained.
Eta has been working alongside Marco Grote, Union Berlin's interim coach, since the departure of Urs Fischer. Brüggemann believes Eta's presence is breaking down barriers and paving the way for other women in the Bundesliga. "She's making space for many other female coaches in the Bundesliga. She's a role model for others," Brüggemann stated.
Brüggemann speculated that while Eta's current role as an assistant coach is ideal for her growth within the field, her ultimate goal could be to become a head coach. "At this moment, that step might be a little premature. Let's observe her as a head coach first. If things don't go as planned, it might be even more challenging for her as a woman, and she might be reduced to her gender. However, her current position as an assistant coach is perfect for preparing her for higher responsibilities. Marco Grote is in charge," Brüggemann remarked.
Marie-Louise Eta's appointment as an assistant coach at 1st FC Union Berlin marks her as the first woman to hold such a position in Bundesliga history. Her journey with Werder Bremen's women's team saw her develop a strong bond with Birte Brüggemann.
While the enrichment data does not directly mention Eta's milestone as the first female assistant coach, it does highlight Sabrina Wittmann's achievement of becoming the first female head coach in German professional football with FC Ingolstadt 04. In May 2024.
