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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

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

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory 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 Women’s Super League.

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

“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Lasting Legacy

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

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the development of the WU23 program in the coming years.