Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Role to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team 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 new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have 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 progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of several players to the national team, 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 is now underway, to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.
