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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a different setting.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.