England's Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Position to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced 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.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.
