🔗 Share this article

Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has stepped down from the Young Lionesses national team to assume the role of head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

Fresh Beginnings

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its debut 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 finish second-bottom in the league standings.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the FA,” commented Coates. “The experience has been formative both in my career and as an individual. This feels like the right moment to test my abilities in a new environment.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates guided the England U23s through matches including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a high-scoring loss to the United States. Accompanying her to America is her former Lionesses staff member, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the Women’s Super League.

Bay FC's CEO, a one-time Football Association technical lead, spoke highly of Coates's abilities: “Emma is not only an superb manager, but she also has a strong record of nurturing talent to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” she continued.

Bay FC's Journey

Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and losing in the playoffs in its first year before slipping to a near-bottom placement in 2025.

Gavin Step, Gavin Step, bid farewell 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 pivotal part in strengthening the pathway between the young Lionesses and the first team.”

“Their work has directly influenced the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” Step concluded.

Pathway Success

After succeeding Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the advancement of multiple players to the England senior side, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

The search for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.