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 stepped down from the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion 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,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements has begun, to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
