Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC

In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed 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,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure 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. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, 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: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.