Union Berlin Defends Marie-Louise Eta Against Sexist Online Attacks
Berlin, April 14 – Following the promotion of Marie-Louise Eta as the first female head coach in the men’s Bundesliga, 1. FC Union Berlin has strongly condemned sexist and derogatory comments circulating on social media. The club’s CEO, Horst Heldt, expressed his shock and frustration regarding the need to address such negativity.
“I have noticed it, but I refuse to actually read it and identify with it or even look at any nonsense,” Heldt stated during a press conference for the ‘Iron Ones’. He emphasized that the verbal attacks were not a topic of discussion with Eta herself, underscoring her professionalism.
“Insane that we have to deal with this”
“I find it insane that we have to deal with this in this day and age, that we have to justify ourselves. We are talking about a highly competent leader here,” Heldt remarked about Eta. The 34-year-old is set to lead Union Berlin for the remaining five matches of the season.
The club had previously responded directly to social media posts. For instance, on X (formerly Twitter), Union Berlin countered a condescending post from a user with: “But that’s exactly what you are, a sexist.” The user had written: “The Bundesliga coach who loses against her has lost his face forever. I don’t think there’s anything more embarrassing.”
Christian Arbeit, Union Berlin’s Head of Communications, praised his staff for their clear rebuttal. He admitted that the club had “jumped into the social media battle a bit,” adding that one has to be “ashamed at times of the kind of people who dare to expose themselves publicly in such a way that you can hardly find words for it.”
“With all due respect, but that’s sexism”
Eta’s appointment follows the surprising departure of Steffen Baumgart, making her a trailblazer in men’s professional football. The personnel change has sparked controversial and, at times, inappropriate discussions online. The “Union family” has rallied behind her, defending their coach against hateful comments and even calling her a “football goddess.” Many users have lauded the club’s stance.
In response to a comment suggesting that no player would take a woman seriously when she talks about tactics or football, Union Berlin retorted: “With all due respect, but that’s sexism.”
Widespread Support for a Milestone
Among those who offered exclusively positive words for this milestone in men’s football was Berlin’s Governing Mayor, Kai Wegner. “Respect and recognition to FC Union Berlin for this decision. A strong signal for professional football and for women in top-level sports,” stated the CDU politician.
Wegner initially misspelled Eta’s double name, omitting the ‘o’ in Louise. He later explained, after being prompted by the Bundesliga club, that he was “so overwhelmed” by the news.
The club’s firm stance underscores its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and combating discrimination in sports, setting an important precedent for other clubs and leagues.
Source: dpa
