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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, 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 franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its debut two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to step down at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC end up 13th in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “It has helped shape me both in my career and as an individual. I am now prepared and eager to push myself in a different setting.”

Track Record of Success

During her tenure 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. Making the move alongside her to the United States is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an outstanding tactician, but she also has a proven track 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 searching for,” added Cossington.

Club Context

The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its debut season before struggling to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The Football Association's new technical lead, 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 venture abroad. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

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

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of several players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for successors to fill the roles has begun, as the FA looks to continue the development of the WU23 program in the coming years.