Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a new environment.”
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 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.