England's Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses 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 led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure 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 ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
Club Context
The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.
