Coach Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Position to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from 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 step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.
