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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated 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 league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

The California side experienced a rollercoaster 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.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.