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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL 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 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. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” she continued.

Club Context

The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs 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 contributions and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the national team, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for new U23 coaching staff has begun, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.