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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were searching for,” added Cossington.

The Task Ahead

Bay FC experienced a contrasting 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, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Lasting Legacy

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 begun, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the future.