England's Emma Coates Exits England U23 Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Proven Developer
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory 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 former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” she continued.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.
