Coach Emma Coates Exits England U23 Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League'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 be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.
