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In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight 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 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish 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 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 WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.