Arsenal delivered blow as ‘primary’ managerial target rules himself out | OneFootball

Arsenal have been handed a significant blow in their hunt for Jonas Eidevall’s replacement as their reported primary target has distanced himself from the job.

The Gunners have had a mixed start to the 2024/25 season as they sit fifth in the WSL standings with just two wins from their opening six games. Eidevall, who had been in charge of the club since 2021, resigned from his position in October following a disappointing run of results.

Assistant Renee Slegers has taken charge as interim manager over the last three games, guiding them to two wins and a draw across all competitions. The 35-year-old confirmed last week she expects to remain in charge until at least the November international break.

According to The Athletic, former Manchester City boss Nick Cushing was Arsenal’s primary target to replace Eidevall in a search that is being led by their director of women’s football, Clare Wheatley. Edu was also involved in the recruitment process prior to his departure as sporting director earlier this week.

Cushing, 39, has managed in the women’s game before with Manchester City. He guided them to a league title, one FA Cup and two League Cups during his seven years at the club between 2013 and 2020.

Nick Cushing during his time at Manchester City / Charlotte Tattersall/GettyImages

Four years ago, he departed the club to join MLS side New York City FC as an assistant, and in 2022 he was promoted to head coach ahead of the 2023 campaign.

Speaking to the media over the weekend, Cushing distanced himself from the vacant Arsenal job and insisted he will remain with his current club in the USA. “I can confirm that I will be back here next year,” he said on Saturday.

One local MLS journalist also confirmed there has been no contact between Arsenal and Cushing about the role. He is under contract with New York City FC, who are owned by City Football Group, through until 2025.

Arsenal are in WSL action this weekend at home to Brighton, who are currently third in the league standings. Midweek, they will travel away to face Juventus in the group stage of the Champions League.