Emma Coates Departs England U23 Position to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC

In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided 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 conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

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

Club Context

The club had 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.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.