England's Emma Coates Exits England U23 Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach 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.
Fresh Beginnings
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 step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures 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 America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Club Context
The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.
