🔗 Share this article

Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, 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 franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart 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,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were looking for,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for successors to fill the roles has begun, to continue the development of the WU23 program in the future.