Coach Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC

In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- 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 strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.

The Task Ahead

The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, 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. They have played a key role 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.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of multiple 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.

Discussions for their replacements is now underway, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.