Coach Emma Coates Departs England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
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 high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
