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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses 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 California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked 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 guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” she continued.

Club Context

Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, with the aim to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.