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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of 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 step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

Since taking charge 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 United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” the CEO stated.

Club Context

The California side experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in fortifying the pipeline 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.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the rise of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for their replacements has already commenced, to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.