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In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

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

The Task Ahead

The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the coming years.