Manchester City Women’s manager Nick Cushing will leave the Women’s Super League club after over six years in charge to join New York City FC.
The 35-year-old will be taking up the role of assistant manager at New York City FC at the start of February, joining new manager Ronny Deila ahead of the new MLS season and staying within the City Football Group.
Cushing has led City’s women since since it reformed in 2014 and won six trophies in as many years, with three Continental Cups, two FA Cups, and one FA Women’s Super League title (in 2016).
He twice led City to the semi finals of the Women’s Champions League in the last four campaigns.
The experienced coach had been attracting attention from the NWSL and will leave City with the club still challenging for top honours.
His final game in charge of the women’s team will be at home against Arsenal on Sunday February 2.
Speaking about his move, Cushing said: “I would like to thank City Football Group and Manchester City for giving me the opportunity to manage our women’s team for the past six years.
“Making the decision to leave MCWFC has been incredibly difficult given the fantastic players and staff that we have here and the incredible success that we have achieved together – it isn’t one that I have taken lightly.
“We’ve had an amazing six-and-a-half seasons and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with everybody – I will be extremely emotional to leave, but I’m very excited for my next role within the City Football Group.
“Linking up with New York City and Ronny (Deila) is a brilliant opportunity and I’m really looking forward to working in the MLS.”
Head of Women’s Football, Gavin Makel added: “On behalf of everybody at the club, I would like to pass on my gratitude and thanks to Nick for his dedication to Manchester City Women over the past six years and to Manchester City as a whole beyond that time.
“MCWFC was a journey that we began together and what he has achieved as a manager during his time in charge is unrivalled in the women’s game.
“He will be missed, but everybody here is thrilled for him and this exciting new venture within the City Football Group.”
Alan Mahon, who has worked alongside Cushing since August 2014, has been appointed as interim manager and will take charge of first team matters.
The former Republic of Ireland international played for Tranmere Rovers, Wigan Athletic, Burnley,, and Sporting Lisbon during a 16-year professional career.
He will be assisted by highly experienced coach Brian Eastick, who was Aston Villa’s Head of Coaching for three years.
Following Cushing’s departure, current assistant manager Alan Mahon will take charge of first team matters in the interim period, with former England men’s Under-21s coach Brian Eastick providing a supporting role, bringing with him over 30 years of experience both on and off the pitch.