🔗 Share this article Emma Coates Leaves the Young Lionesses Position to Become Head Coach at National Women's Soccer League's Bay FC In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC. Fresh Beginnings She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated 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,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.” Coaching Pedigree During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- 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 credentials: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record 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,” she continued. Club Context Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season 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 time with us and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.” “Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded. Pathway Success Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones. An extensive process for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the development of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.