Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds 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 end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both 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 teams and environments and has the football vision we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.
