Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat 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 departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the rise of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for their replacements has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.