Kompany: Eta appointment as Union Berlin coach defining moment for women in football

Vincent Kompany has hailed the appointment of Marie-Louise Eta as interim head coach of Union Berlin, describing it as a defining moment that could reshape perceptions and opportunity in football.

Eta’s elevation on Saturday marked an unprecedented milestone in the Bundesliga, making her the first woman to lead a men’s top-flight side in Germany.

The 34-year-old steps into the role after working within Union’s system, having previously guided the club’s Under-19 side and served as an assistant coach since 2023.

Speaking ahead of Bayern Munich’s Champions League clash with Real Madrid, Kompany welcomed the development, stressing its wider importance beyond immediate sporting considerations.

“I am actually really happy (with Eta’s appointment),” Kompany said. “I think these are key moments.”

While acknowledging that equality demands normalising such appointments, Kompany insisted the symbolic value should not be understated.

“It is easy to minimise them and say ‘she is just a coach like everybody else, and that is how we have to treat her as colleagues’. But in the end it is something special,” he added.

For Kompany, the significance lies in the example it sets for the next generation. “It opens a lot of opportunities to little girls who now play football and think ‘I can coach anywhere, make a real career and be successful’. These stories are really important.”

Eta’s promotion comes at a time when conversations around representation in elite football continue to intensify.

She is also set to assume responsibility for Union’s women’s team on a permanent basis from next season, underlining the club’s long-term commitment to her development.

However, the historic nature of her appointment has also exposed lingering challenges. Union Berlin on Monday issued a strong statement condemning sexist abuse directed at Eta online, criticising the tone of the reaction as “insane” and “embarrassing.”

Kompany, while offering his support, also called for patience. “I wish her all the best, and the only part I wish she is not treated like a man, is being patient with her, because the coaching job lacks patience on the leadership level.”