🔗 Share this article

Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a different setting.”

Proven Developer

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”

“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles is now underway, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the coming years.