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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the former England youth boss has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League franchise Bay FC.

Transition Stateside

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the California club during its debut 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. “The experience has been formative both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to push myself in a different setting.”

Proven Developer

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a 1-0 victory 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 right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's credentials: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“She is an outstanding leader of squads and building ethos and has the football vision we were searching for,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their service and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. Emma, with Gemma, has played a key role in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

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

Lasting Legacy

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

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.