Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Role to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's abilities: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.
