🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Exits England U23 Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. A New Chapter She takes over from 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 end 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,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.” Coaching Pedigree Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss 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 former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.” “Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were searching for,” the CEO stated. Club Context The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added. Lasting Legacy Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.