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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to resign at the end 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,” stated Coates. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's credentials: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” she continued.

Club Context

The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank 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 WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the promotion of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the coming years.