🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Departs England Under-23s Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC. A New Chapter Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.” Proven Developer Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed 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 WSL. Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.” “Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington. Bay FC's Journey The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025. The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Lasting Legacy After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.