Emma Coates Leaves 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 left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign 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,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of a number of 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 their replacements has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.