🔗 Share this article England's Emma Coates Exits England U23 Role to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.” Coaching Pedigree During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division. Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.” “Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” she continued. Bay FC's Journey Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has 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 gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished. Lasting Legacy Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.