🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC. Transition Stateside Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings. “My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development 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 guided 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. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, 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 abilities: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.” “She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated. The Task Ahead Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025. The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Lasting Legacy After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple 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 already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.