Coach Emma Coates Departs England U23 Role to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” she continued.
Club Context
The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season 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 venture abroad. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, to continue the development of the youth national team in the coming years.
