Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited 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 European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for successors to fill the roles is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.
