Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its first 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 finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before slipping to a near-bottom placement 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 service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline 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.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
