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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 National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end 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. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club had a mixed 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, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement 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.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has begun, with the aim to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.