Marie-Louise Eta wrote history as the first female to coach in one of the top-five men’s leagues when Union Berlin played against Wolfsburg last week. The 34-year-old spoke about the messages she received from fellow head coaches in an exclusive interview with Bundesliga.

“Yes, I got messages from several coaches, as well as from several players. I was grateful for all the messages,” said Eta when she was asked about the reactions to the news. In particular, Vincent Kompany addressed the issue in his usual thoughtful way before his team’s Champions League game against Real Madrid.

"I am very happy about it," said the Bundesliga champion regarding Union Berlin’s decision. "She can serve as a role model for young girls. These stories are really important. Ultimately, it’s something quite special.”

“Yes, it was sent to me,” Eta revealed to Bundesliga that she saw the clip. “What he said and the way he said it made me happy. I would also like to congratulate him on the league title because they had an unbelievable season. It’s always nicer when other people talk about you rather than you having to talk about yourself.”

Eta will have four games before taking charge of the women’s team in the summer. After tomorrow’s game away at RB Leipzig, Union Berlin will face teams closer to them in the standings with matches against Mainz, Köln and Augsburg.