Emma Coates Departs England U23 Role to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed 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 WSL.
Kay Cossington, 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 compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the football vision we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “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 key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.