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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

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures 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 right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have 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 young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Lasting Legacy

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

An extensive process for their replacements has begun, to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.