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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington.

The Task Ahead

Bay FC had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.