Emma Coates Exits England U23 Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League'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 assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided 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 England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the future.
