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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its inaugural 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder 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, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.