🔗 Share this article

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England Women’s Under-23 national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat 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 one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of squads and building ethos and has the strategic outlook we were seeking,” she continued.

Club Context

The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role 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 progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Lasting Legacy

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the national team, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has begun, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the future.