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England's Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Position to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC
In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.
Fresh Beginnings
She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart 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 been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a new environment.”
Proven Developer
In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.
Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”
“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” she continued.
Club Context
The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.
Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”
“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.
Lasting Legacy
Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement 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 new U23 coaching staff has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.
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