England's Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Role to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight 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.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” she continued.
Club Context
The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
