🔗 Share this article England's Emma Coates Departs the Young Lionesses Post to Become Head Coach at NWSL's Bay FC Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC. Transition Stateside Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end 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,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.” Coaching Pedigree During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League. Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.” “She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated. Club Context Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025. Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Together, they have 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 presided over the rise of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. The search for new U23 coaching staff has begun, with the aim to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.