Coach Emma Coates Departs England U23 Post to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed 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 league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of a number of players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.
