Coach Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 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 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 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked 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 different setting.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition 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.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the progress of the youth national team in the coming years.
