🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC. Transition Stateside She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed 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 fresh challenge.” Track Record of Success During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided 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 NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL. Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington. Bay FC's Journey The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Player Progression After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for their replacements has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the coming years.