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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to be appointed head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down 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. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. She will be joined to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were searching for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

Bay FC had a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a crucial part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the coming years.