🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Departs England U23 Post to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings. “My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a new environment.” Proven Developer During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division. Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington. Club Context The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added. Player Progression After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.