🔗 Share this article

Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss 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 franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya stated in September his intention to step down at the conclusion 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,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

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 high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, praised Coates's credentials: “Coates is an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.

Club Context

Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling 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 service and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many young players who have earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Player Progression

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

An extensive process for their replacements has begun, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the seasons ahead.