Coach Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Role to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw 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 NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for successors to fill the roles is now underway, with the aim to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.
