Table of Contents
Arsenal Eyes Nick Cushing as Key Contender for Women’s Team Manager Role
Arsenal is actively pursuing Nick Cushing, currently the head coach of New York City FC, as the leading candidate to succeed Jonas Eidevall as the manager of their women’s team.
Earlier this month, Eidevall opted to resign from his position, leaving two years remaining on his contract, following a series of unsatisfactory performances.
Cushing’s Current Commitment and Arsenal’s Strategy
At 39 years old, Cushing is Arsenal’s top choice for the role, but the former Manchester City women’s coach faces competition in an ongoing selection process. Currently, Cushing is preparing his team for the playoffs, and is bound by a contract with NYCFC that extends through the end of the 2025 Major League Soccer season. While this timing poses challenges for Arsenal, the club expresses confidence in interim head coach Renee Slegers as they navigate this transition.
Upcoming Playoff Matches for NYCFC
NYCFC has entered the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs, set to compete against FC Cincinnati in a three-match series on October 28, November 2, and November 9, should it be necessary. If they advance, they could find themselves in the conference semi-finals later in November, with potential finals slated for November 30 or December 1, and the championship match on December 7.
Cushing’s Career Path within the City Football Group
After parting ways with Manchester City in 2020, Cushing transitioned to coaching in the U.S. men’s game ‌while still under the City Football Group (CFG), which oversees multiple clubs globally, including Manchester City and NYCFC. His long-standing relationship with CFG played a significant role in his move. Cushing’s tenure with CFG spans nearly two decades, showcasing his value within the organization, which may prefer to retain his services.
Initially serving as interim head coach for NYCFC in the summer of 2022, he was officially appointed to the position later that year. Under his leadership, NYCFC secured a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference during the 2022 season, making it to the MLS Cup playoffs semi-finals. However, the 2023 season was less favorable, as they fell to 11th in the conference and missed the playoffs, only to recover with a sixth-place finish this year.
Experience with Women’s Football
Cushing boasts extensive experience in the Women’s Super League, having led Manchester City to victory in various tournaments, including the league title in 2016 and the FA Cup in 2017. He began his journey at City in 2006, focusing on the boys’ academy, before transitioning to the women’s team in late 2013 and stepping into the managerial role in February 2014.
During his time at City, Cushing mentored several English football legends such as Jill Scott and Steph Houghton, along with established players from the Lionesses like Lucy Bronze, Keira Walsh, Ellen White, and rising stars like Lauren Hemp and Jess Park.
Reflecting on his past in Manchester, Cushing told The Athletic in 2021, “For six years, my family and I lived and breathed it. I cherish my role here in New York, and I love the vision we had with Ronny Deila and NYCFC, but I find myself missing that time consistently; it truly was an unparalleled experience with incredible people and unforgettable victories.”
Current Recruitment Process at Arsenal
The recruitment process is being spearheaded by Clare Wheatley, the Director of Women’s Football, in collaboration with sporting director Edu. Meanwhile, Slegers has taken the lead as interim head coach, achieving victories against Valerenga in the Champions League and West Ham United in the WSL. Trust remains in her ability to guide the team until a permanent manager is announced. Arsenal’s next challenge is against Manchester United on November 3.
(Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos/Getty Images)