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In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League 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 English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players 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,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several 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 progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.