🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Departs England U23 Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC In a significant career move, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Transition Stateside Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings. “It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.” Coaching Pedigree Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division. The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.” “Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington. Bay FC's Journey The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The Football Association's new technical lead, 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. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Player Progression Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the future.