Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment 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 continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.
