Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided 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 former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated.

The Task Ahead

The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.