🔗 Share this article England's Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Position to Take Helm at NWSL's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC. Transition Stateside Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a different setting.” Coaching Pedigree Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed 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. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL 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, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.” “Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated. The Task Ahead Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Player Progression After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.