🔗 Share this article

In a significant career move, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the England Women’s Under-23 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 led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down 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,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's abilities: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“She is an outstanding leader of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

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 struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to 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 bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly shaped the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

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 netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.