Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, 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
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end 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. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided 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 England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service 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 young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
