Coach Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC

In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked 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 different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Club Context

Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements is now underway, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.