England's Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Her appointment follows the departure of 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 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying 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 qualifications: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has 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 promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, 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 has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the youth national team in the coming years.
