Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced 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.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. 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, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of multiple 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 already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.
