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In a significant career move, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the Young Lionesses national team to take over as head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Her appointment follows the departure of Albertin Montoya, who led the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight 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 league standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” stated Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a fresh challenge.”

Track Record of Success

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

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 elevating athletes to thrive domestically and internationally.”

“Coates excels at leading of teams and environments and has the tactical philosophy we were looking for,” added Cossington.

Bay FC's Journey

The club experienced a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and losing in the playoffs in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “Our gratitude goes to Emma and Gemma for their contributions and wish them all the best with their next chapter. They have played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly impacted 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 advancement of several players to the England senior side, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, to continue the progress of the youth national team in the future.