England's Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Role to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

In a significant career move, Emma Coates 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.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches 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 the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year 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 time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the national team, including midfielder 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 begun, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.