Coach Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise 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 top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. Making the move alongside her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong 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,” she continued.
The Task Ahead
The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.
