New York City FC fires head coach Nick Cushing

NYCFC have fired head coach Nick Cushing, the club announced on Tuesday morning.

Cushing took over on an interim basis in July 2022 for former head coach Ronny Deila and was brought on board permanently at the end of that season, having led the club to the Eastern Conference finals. Cushing compiled a 40-27-40 record in all competitions across his time in New York.

NYCFC were eliminated from the MLS Cup playoffs last week after a disappointing 2-0 home loss to crosstown rivals New York Red Bulls.

“We would like to thank Nick for his incredible dedication to the club and this city,” sporting director David Lee said in the club’s statement.

“During his time at New York City FC, Nick has been a true professional, playing an important role in delivering the Club’s first MLS Cup as an assistant coach and then leading the team as interim head coach to a Campeones Cup victory in 2022.”

Lee added: “Whilst we are incredibly appreciative for all he has done for the club, at this current time, we believe it’s best to move the team in a new direction as we plan for the 2025 season and beyond.”

5 years, For The City.

Thank you, Nick 💙

— New York City FC (@newyorkcityfc) November 26, 2024

Before working in MLS, Cushing was manager of Manchester City’s women’s team from 2013 to 2020.

The 40-year-old has been considered a potential candidate for the head coaching vacancy at Arsenal’s women’s side following the departure of their previous head coach, Jonas Eidevall, in October.

Cushing himself rebuffed reports of Arsenal’s interest some three weeks ago during a news conference.

“The whole story is news to me,” Cushing told the assembled media. “There has been no contact from anybody outside this organisation with myself. I can confirm I will be here next year.”

NYCFC now has one of the four current MLS coaching vacancies, joining Atlanta United, Philadelphia Union and Vancouver Whitecaps. The Inter Miami job is also open with Javier Mascherano set to be named as Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino’s successor imminently.

(Andrew Katsampes / ISI Photos / Getty Images)