🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Leaves England Under-23s Post to Assume Command at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, Emma Coates has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Transition Stateside Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a fresh challenge.” Coaching Pedigree In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. Accompanying her to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division. The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.” “She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” she continued. Club Context The club experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions 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.” “Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished. Player Progression Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. Discussions for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.