Coach Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Role to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked 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.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.
