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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed 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.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, 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,” she continued.

Club Context

The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of a number of players to the national team, including playmaker 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 begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.