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In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed 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 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” the CEO stated.

The Task Ahead

The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.