England's Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Position to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.
