🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Role to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings. “It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.” Proven Developer Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League. Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.” “Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington. Club Context The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025. The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished. Player Progression Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.