Coach Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm 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 ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling 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 wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.
