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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.

Club Context

The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Pathway Success

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

The search for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.