🔗 Share this article England's Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Role to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.” Proven Developer In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL. The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.” “Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” she continued. Club Context Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Pathway Success Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.