🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its inaugural 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 occupy a lowly 13th place 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. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.” Proven Developer In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division. Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's qualifications: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.” “She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” she continued. Bay FC's Journey The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished. Lasting Legacy After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.