Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Position to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League'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 guided 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches 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 America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.