Coach Emma Coates Exits the Young Lionesses Role to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Coates succeeds 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 step down at the end 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. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has begun, to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.