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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, Emma Coates has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the conclusion 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,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed 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. She will be joined to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” she continued.

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, bid farewell to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.