🔗 Share this article England's Emma Coates Exits England U23 Role to Assume Command 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 Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC. A New Chapter Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings. “It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a fresh challenge.” 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. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL. Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were looking for,” the CEO stated. Club Context The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025. The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished. Lasting Legacy Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.