Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Role to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.
A New Chapter
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated 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 league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a different setting.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided 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. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”
“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.
Pathway Success
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
Discussions for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.
