Sources: NWSL's Denver close to hiring Cushing

Denver's 2026 NWSL expansion team is nearing an agreement to appoint Nick Cushing as its inaugural head coach, according to multiple sources. Cushing previously managed Manchester City Women and Major League Soccer's New York City FC.

The coach brings extensive experience from City Football Group, having joined its academy in 2006. His recent role included serving as interim manager for Manchester City Women starting March 2024 after Gareth Taylor's dismissal. Earlier, he led Manchester City Women from 2013-2020, securing the 2016 league title and 2017 FA Women's Cup.

Cushing transitioned to NYCFC in 2020 as an assistant coach, contributing to their 2021 MLS Cup victory. He became interim head coach mid-2022 before earning the permanent position later that year. Under his full-time leadership in 2023-2024, NYCFC missed playoffs in 2023 and placed sixth in the Eastern Conference in 2024.

Denver GM Curt Johnson emphasized prioritizing both coaching quality and availability. The unnamed Denver franchise and Boston Legacy FC will join NWSL next season, expanding the league to 16 teams. Boston previously named Filipa Patão as its first head coach.