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Marking a major shift in her coaching journey, the 34-year-old coach has resigned her post with the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL expansion side Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its first two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to depart at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC occupy a lowly 13th place in the 14-team standings.

“It has been a privilege to serve my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has helped shape me both on and off the pitch. Now, I feel ready and excited to test my abilities in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

In her time at the helm in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a 1-0 victory over Norway in the European U23 League and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. Accompanying her to the United States is her England assistant, Gemma Davies, a ex- Aston Villa manager in the WSL.

The club's chief executive, a one-time Football Association technical lead, highlighted Coates's qualifications: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to succeed on the biggest stages.”

“Coates excels at leading of people and culture and has the football vision we were seeking,” added Cossington.

The Task Ahead

The California side had a mixed start to its NWSL existence, finishing in seventh place and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before struggling to a 13th-place finish in 2025.

Gavin Step, 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 new challenge. They have played a crucial part 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 earned call-ups to senior Lionesses,” he added.

Player Progression

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates has overseen the advancement of a number of players to the Lionesses squad, including midfielder Lucia Kendall—who netted her first Lionesses goal—and forwards Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

An extensive process for new U23 coaching staff is now underway, with the aim to continue the development of the Women’s Under-23s setup in the future.