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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the conclusion 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,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a new environment.”

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 European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

The club's chief executive, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.