Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.