England's Emma Coates Departs England U23 Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed 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,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” she continued.
Club Context
Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement 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 next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the future.
