🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Exits England Under-23s Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of 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 debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings. “My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.” Proven Developer Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win 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 ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL. Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.” “Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” she continued. The Task Ahead The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished. Pathway Success Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for their replacements has begun, to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.