Coach Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart 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,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding 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 first 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 coming years.
