Coach Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Post to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its first 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to push 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 high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined 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 one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell 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. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.