Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has 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 has overseen the advancement of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for successors to fill the roles has begun, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.
