Coach Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart 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. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided 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. She will be joined to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.
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 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 time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.
