Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Post to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC
Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down 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,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a different setting.”
Coaching Pedigree
During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”
“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.
Bay FC's Journey
The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.
Pathway Success
After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the coming years.