Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Role to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural 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 helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a different setting.”
Track Record of Success
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. 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.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements has begun, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.
