England's Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has begun, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
