Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” she continued.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.
