Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Position to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
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 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 ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties 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 venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
