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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented 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

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” the CEO stated.

The Task Ahead

Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

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

An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.