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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 be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated 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 league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were searching for,” the CEO stated.

Club Context

Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes 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 impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.