England's Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has stepped down from 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 was at the helm of the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league 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. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “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 young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of a number of players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the development of the youth national team in the future.
