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In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its first 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 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided 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. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, 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: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

The club had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly impacted the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Pathway Success

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

The search for successors to fill the roles has begun, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.