Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced 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.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.
