England's Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural 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,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win 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 England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side had 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 new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.
