England's Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Position to Take Helm 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 Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut 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 end up 13th in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” she continued.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement 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 key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.