Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Post to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side 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 top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed 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.
“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated 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.”
Coaching Pedigree
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures 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 America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “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 crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
