Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
