🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC In a significant career move, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Transition Stateside Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.” Track Record of Success Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League. The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated. Bay FC's Journey The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025. The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished. Pathway Success After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.