Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” she continued.
Club Context
Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has 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 promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of a number of players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.