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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who guided the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated 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 league standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented 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 fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided 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. Making the move alongside her to the NWSL is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an outstanding tactician, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their next chapter. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Pathway Success

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

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.