Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut 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 end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former 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 nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
