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In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw 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. She will be joined to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

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

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The club had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Lasting Legacy

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the advancement of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, 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, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.