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Embarking on a fresh professional challenge, the 34-year-old coach has left her position leading the England WU23 national team to take over as head coach for NWSL franchise Bay FC.

A New Chapter

She takes over from Albertin Montoya, who was at the helm of the California club during its inaugural two seasons in the premier American league. Montoya announced in September his intention to step down at the end of the 2025 campaign, a season which saw Bay FC finish second-bottom in the 14-team standings.

“My time with the FA has been incredible my time with the FA,” remarked Coates. “It has been instrumental in my development both in my career and as an individual. Now, I feel ready and excited to push myself in a different setting.”

Coaching Pedigree

During her tenure in 2023, Coates oversaw the England U23s through fixtures including a narrow win over Norway in the continental competition and a 4-2 friendly defeat to the United States. She will be joined to America is her right-hand woman, Gemma Davies, a former 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 credentials: “She is both an outstanding tactician, but she also has a demonstrated history of elevating athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

“She is an outstanding leader of people and culture and has the tactical philosophy we were seeking,” she continued.

The Task Ahead

Bay FC experienced a contrasting start to its NWSL existence, securing a playoff spot and suffering a postseason defeat in its first year before facing difficulties 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 time with us and extend our best wishes with their new challenge. Emma, with Gemma, has played a crucial part in fortifying the pipeline between the WU23s and the senior squad.”

“Together, they have directly shaped the development of many promising talents who have gone on to become senior Lionesses,” he finished.

Pathway Success

Since taking over Mo Marley in 2023, Coates presided over the promotion of multiple players to the Lionesses squad, including playmaker Lucia Kendall—who recently scored her debut Lionesses goal—and attackers Michelle Agyemang and Aggie Beever-Jones.

Discussions for successors to fill the roles has already commenced, as the FA looks to continue the progress of the youth national team in the seasons ahead.