England's Emma Coates Departs England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, 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 venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.