Emma Coates Departs England U23 Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced 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.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure 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 right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The club 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 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.
