Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Post to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.