🔗 Share this article England's Emma Coates Leaves England U23 Post to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 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 was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings. “My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented 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.” Proven Developer Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League. Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to compete at the highest levels.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” she continued. The Task Ahead The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added. Player Progression Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.