Emma Coates Leaves 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 stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” the CEO stated.
The Task Ahead
Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.
