England's Emma Coates Departs England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC

Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the conclusion 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,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a different setting.”

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 high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for their replacements has begun, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the future.