England's Emma Coates Departs England U23 Position to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the end 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,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” she continued.
Club Context
The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.
