🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL 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 debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a different setting.” Coaching Pedigree During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League. Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.” “Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington. Club Context The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added. Lasting Legacy After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.