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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated 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 league standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” she continued.

The Task Ahead

The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.