England's Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League 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 premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end 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,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm 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 United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.
