Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.
Club Context
The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
