Emma Coates Exits England U23 Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier 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.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history 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 searching for,” she continued.
The Task Ahead
The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, 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 fortifying the pipeline 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.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the future.
