Union Berlin have strongly condemned the wave of sexist abuse directed at their newly appointed manager, Marie-Louise Eta.
The club’s sporting director, Horst Heldt, described the online backlash as unacceptable, criticising the behaviour of social media users reacting to her appointment.
Heldt said, “It’s just embarrassing. I’ve noticed it, but I also refuse to read or even just expose myself to that kind of nonsense because for me this is about quality – leadership quality.
“We’re talking about a highly competent leader here, and you can be sure that everyone here at Union, whether in the stands or within the club itself, stands 100% behind this decision and will do everything in their power to ensure that this doesn’t lead to any further discussion in the future.”
He added that Eta has already made a strong impression and is settling quickly into her new role, with her first training session scheduled for Tuesday.
“She had a great run with the U19s team, so she’s already fulfilled a role as head coach and is experienced,” he said.
“Another advantage is that we all know her and she knows us. She doesn’t need to be shown the ropes here – she knows it all. She knows the stadium, the atmosphere, the people and, above all, the players.”
Heldt further stressed the club’s full backing for the new coach.
“We have 100% confidence in Loui – complete conviction. I find it insane that we have to deal with this in this day and age,” he said.
Eta takes charge of Union Berlin with the team sitting mid-table in the Bundesliga, aiming to improve their form after a challenging run of results in 2026.