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Manchester City Women have parted ways with head coach Gareth Taylor just days before their crucial League Cup final against Chelsea, the club announced on Monday.
Taylor, who took charge in 2020, had led City to FA Cup and League Cup triumphs during his tenure. However, with the team currently sitting fourth in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and trailing leaders Chelsea by 12 points, the club decided to make a managerial change.
City’s managing director Charlotte O’Neill acknowledged Taylor’s contributions but emphasized the club’s high expectations.
"Manchester City prides itself on competing at the top of the WSL and maintaining an outstanding record of European qualification," O’Neill said in a statement. "Unfortunately, this season’s results have not met that standard."
With only six league games remaining, City is determined to secure a Champions League spot for the 2025-26 season. Nick Cushing, who previously coached the team before Taylor’s arrival, will step in as interim manager for the rest of the campaign.
Taylor’s departure comes despite City’s recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa, which secured their place in the FA Cup semi-finals. Under his leadership, the team consistently finished in the top four, though they narrowly missed out on last season’s WSL title on goal difference.
Cushing, who guided City to multiple domestic trophies before moving to New York City FC in 2020, now returns to the helm. His first test will be against Chelsea in the League Cup final on Saturday.
"With the WSL run-in ahead, we believe a change of leadership can bring fresh momentum to our Champions League qualification bid," O’Neill added. "We thank Gareth for his dedication and wish him the best for the future."
Cushing, who recently left his role in Major League Soccer, will be tasked with ensuring City finishes strong in both domestic and European competition.
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