Coach Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Role to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC

In a significant career move, Emma Coates has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed 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 test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.

Club Context

Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.