Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Position to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC

Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States 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, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” 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 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: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.