🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Departs England U23 Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings. “It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.” Coaching Pedigree In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw 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 America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL. The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.” “She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington. The Task Ahead The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement 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 wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Pathway Success Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.