England's Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Position to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as 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 resign 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 been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss 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 Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.
Club Context
Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement 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 wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players 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 several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
