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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed 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. “The experience has been formative both on and off the pitch. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Making the move alongside 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 former FA women’s technical director, praised Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were seeking,” 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 debut season before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and extend our best wishes 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 promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has been integral to the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the growth of the WU23 program in the future.