🔗 Share this article

Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has stepped down from the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

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 depart at the conclusion 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 helped shape me both professionally and personally. I am now prepared and eager to challenge myself in a fresh challenge.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates managed the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a former Aston Villa manager in the English top division.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Coates is an excellent coach, but she also has a proven track record of developing players to compete at the highest levels.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the strategic outlook we were searching for,” the CEO stated.

Club Context

The California side experienced a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before slipping to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the outgoing coaches: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many young players who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Lasting Legacy

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

An extensive process for their replacements has begun, with the aim to continue the progress of the WU23 program in the coming years.