England's Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
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 had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.
