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In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its first two seasons in the premier 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,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

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

Bay FC's Journey

The California side had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.