Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the conclusion 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,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“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 California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish 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 new challenge. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.
