Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements has begun, with the aim to continue the progress of the youth national team in the coming years.
