Emma Coates Departs England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
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. She will be joined to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part 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 promotion of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.