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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 be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from 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 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 challenge myself in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided 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 America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping 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 time with us and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial 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 progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Player Progression

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

The search for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.