🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Exits England U23 Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Transition Stateside Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end 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. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.” Track Record of Success In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL. The club's chief executive, 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 nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” she continued. Club Context The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Player Progression After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of a number of 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 is now underway, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.