Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated 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 league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
During her tenure 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. Accompanying her to America 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, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us 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.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
