Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Post to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of 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 step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements is now underway, to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.
