Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only 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 football vision we were seeking,” she continued.
Club Context
The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell 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 key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.
