🔗 Share this article Coach Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Position to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. A New Chapter Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led 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 end up 13th in the 14-team standings. “It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.” Coaching Pedigree In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division. Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.” “Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington. Bay FC's Journey The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season 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 service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished. Player Progression Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder 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 is now underway, to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.