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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down 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. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.

The Task Ahead

Bay FC experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the coming years.