Coach Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided 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.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former 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 outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” she continued.
Club Context
The club had a rollercoaster 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 new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.
