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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, 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

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its inaugural 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 end up 13th in the 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided 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. She will be joined to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of a number of players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.