Coach Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Role to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier 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 league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge 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. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, 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 next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for successors to fill the roles has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the future.