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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California 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 occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed 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. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” the CEO stated.

The Task Ahead

The California side had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles is now underway, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.