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In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England Women’s Under-23 national team to be appointed head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

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 announced in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a demonstrated history of nurturing talent to compete at the highest levels.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The club experienced 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.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

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

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the seasons ahead.