England's Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Post to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”
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 European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” she continued.
Club Context
The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for successors to fill the roles is now underway, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.
