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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to depart at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her right-hand woman, 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: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” the CEO stated.

Bay FC's Journey

The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored 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.