England's Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Post to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.
Transition Stateside
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign 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,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” added Cossington.
The Task Ahead
The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year 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: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.
