🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC. Transition Stateside She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign 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. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.” Track Record of Success In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL. Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.” “She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington. The Task Ahead Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added. Pathway Success 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 first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.