🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Exits England U23 Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings. “It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a different setting.” Track Record of Success During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division. Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.” “Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington. Club Context The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement 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 contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished. Lasting Legacy Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for successors to fill the roles is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the youth national team in the future.