Coach Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Role to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for their replacements has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.