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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles is now underway, to continue the development of the WU23 program in the coming years.