Coach Emma Coates Exits England U23 Role to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the premier 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 league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw 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 former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement 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 new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for successors to fill the roles is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.
