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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 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 stated in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place 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 service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for successors to fill the roles is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.