Coach Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its first 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 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed 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 push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes 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 promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
