England's Emma Coates Exits England U23 Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement 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 service and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for successors to fill the roles has begun, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the future.
