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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss 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.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end 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. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “She is both an outstanding tactician, 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 searching for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The California side experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of a number of players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for their replacements has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.