Coach Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Position to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year 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: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
