Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Role to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Club Context
The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign 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 service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.