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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight 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 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated 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 fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

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 the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for their replacements is now underway, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.