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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced 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,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures 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 America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's abilities: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

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

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements is now underway, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.