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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

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

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the rise of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.