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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge 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 the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Kay Cossington, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the strategic outlook we were looking for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, bid farewell to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for their replacements has already commenced, with the aim to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.