Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed 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,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook 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 first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.