🔗 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 be appointed head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who guided the San Jose-based club during its first two seasons in the top-flight American league. Montoya had revealed in September his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the league standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both professionally and personally. This feels like the right moment to challenge myself in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to the NWSL is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a former FA women’s technical director, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “She is both an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Her leadership qualities are exceptional of teams and environments and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.

The Task Ahead

The club had a rollercoaster start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its inaugural campaign before facing difficulties to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, offered thanks to the departing duo: “We thank Emma and Gemma for their time with us and extend our best wishes with their next chapter. They have played a key role in fortifying the pipeline 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

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

Discussions for new U23 coaching staff has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the WU23 program in the future.