Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed 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. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us 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 impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for successors to fill the roles is now underway, with the aim to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.
