England's Emma Coates Exits England U23 Role to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.
Club Context
Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements has begun, to continue the development of the youth national team in the coming years.
