🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Post to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.” Proven Developer 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 America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League. Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.” “She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington. The Task Ahead Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished. Player Progression Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple 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, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.