Another milestone in Germany: a woman ‘conquers’ Bayern Munich men’s team

Germany is two steps ahead. Just a few days after news broke that a woman had reached the top level of the Bundesliga coaching ranks, another story has emerged that reinforces the country’s commitment to women in soccer. Bayern Munich has handed one of its key players, Magdalena Eriksson, a golden opportunity.

“Exactly a year ago, I got an email from someone at the club I didn’t know, but who turned out to be Bayern Munich’s head of scouting, Christoph Kresse, asking whether I’d be interested in starting work in the scouting department. That’s how it happened. I’ve spent six months learning what the job involves and settling into the role,” the Swedish great explained.

The defender revealed, while working as a commentator for Swedish television during Bayern’s Champions League game against Real Madrid, that a few months ago she received an email from the club offering her a scouting role with the men’s team covering South America. The Sweden international did not hesitate to say yes. At present, alongside fulfilling her professional commitments on the field with the powerhouse Bayern side – which will face Barcelona in the semifinals in a few days – she is also working closely with the club’s sporting department.

“I work as a scout for the men’s team. A lot of people think I do it for the women’s team, but I think there would have been a major conflict of interest,” she said with a laugh. “I’ve grown into the role and now that I feel comfortable, they’ve given me responsibility for leading the South American market,” Eriksson admitted. She is already on the hunt for the next Luis Díaz. Another barrier is being broken naturally in Germany, just as it was with Marie-Louise Eta at Union Berlin.

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