England's Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed 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.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, 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 young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, with the aim to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
