Coach Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as 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 inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise 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.
The search for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.
