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In a significant career move, Emma Coates has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise 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 announced in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches 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 right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were searching for,” the CEO stated.

Club Context

Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly influenced 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 presided over the advancement of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.