Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural 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 finish second-bottom 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. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” she continued.
The Task Ahead
The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.