In a significant career move, Emma Coates has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.
“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”
Track Record of Success
During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.
The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”
“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were searching for,” the CEO stated.
Bay FC's Journey
Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.
The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”
“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.
Player Progression
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.
The search for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the future.
