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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for National Women’s Soccer League expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

Coates succeeds Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to resign at the end 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 been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a new environment.”

Proven Developer

Since taking charge in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Making the move alongside her to America is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

Kay Cossington, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's qualifications: “Emma is not only an excellent coach, but she also has a demonstrated history of developing players to thrive domestically and internationally.”

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

The Task Ahead

The club experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its inaugural campaign before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

The new FA women’s technical director, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and wish them all the best with their venture abroad. They have played a key role in bolstering the progression route between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly impacted the development of many young players who have progressed into senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of several players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the growth of the youth national team in the coming years.