Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. 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 matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League 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 former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the national team, 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, to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.
