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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both on and off the pitch. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a different setting.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures 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 America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” she continued.

Club Context

The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their venture abroad. They have played a pivotal part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Lasting Legacy

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

An extensive process for their replacements is now underway, as the FA looks to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.