Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Position to Take Helm at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed 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 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

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 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 Women’s Super League.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the growth of the youth national team in the future.