Emma Coates Departs England U23 Role to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds 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 stated in September his intention to resign 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 professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory 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 right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has begun, to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.