Coach Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Position to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Club Context
Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the coming years.
