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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

Bay FC experienced 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 new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.