Coach Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Post 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 resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” 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.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.
