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In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

The California side had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

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

The search for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.