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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 National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated 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. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” she continued.

Club Context

Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of a number of players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.