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In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.

The Task Ahead

The California side had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.