Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs 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 departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement 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 begun, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.
