England's Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed 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.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed 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 new environment.”
Proven Developer
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 the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish 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 next chapter. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.
