🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Position to Assume Command at NWSL's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Transition Stateside Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign 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,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.” 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 high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division. Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington. Club Context The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.” “Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Player Progression After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for successors to fill the roles is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.