Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Position to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart 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 been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. 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 one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat 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 departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
