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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 be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

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. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were looking for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for their replacements is now underway, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.