England's Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Role to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a new environment.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided 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. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, 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 qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a key role 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 earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple 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.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.
