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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart 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. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win 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 ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” she continued.

The Task Ahead

Bay FC experienced a mixed 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 outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part 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 progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.