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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were looking for,” she continued.

The Task Ahead

Bay FC experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.