England's Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Position to Become Head Coach 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
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut 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 end up 13th in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements is now underway, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.
