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

In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” she continued.

The Task Ahead

The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for their replacements has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.