Nick Cushing should be given only ten MLS games to prove himself

Throughout the offseason, there is no question that supporters have leaned more negatively in their opinion of Nick Cushing. The New York City FC head coach will be entering his second full season with the Pigeons, despite the fact his record and tactical issues illuminates why he should not be back.

Give Nick Cushing ten games and nothing more

As a result, many feel he should be on a short leash. The club cannot give him an entire season to figure things out. Hence, patience is not possible, and it was thought he should only be given ten games to prove himself.

After a poor preseason, it is time to double down on that. Initially, it was thought NYCFC could give him until the halfway point if the Pigeons have an average record. However, they play six of their first ten games at home. That is why anything less than five or six wins should be enough to send Cushing packing.

The roster is clearly better in 2024, especially with the signing of Jovan Mijatović. The young striker has a chance to become one of the best in Major League Soccer. Moreover, he should help NYCFC increase their goal totals from the previous season.

Nonetheless, with the improved roster, the Bronx side should be better. That is why any early issues or poor performances will easily be attributed to Cushing. Again, it is also his second full season with the team, so there should not be any growing pains. Fans expect positive results.

More importantly, NYCFC should be ready to have an interim coach named if the team has done poorly within their first five or six games. It is never a bad idea to be prepared. At the same time, they should start looking for a permanent head coach who they can possibly bring in over the summer.

That is not to say that everyone wants Cushing to do a terrible job where he is sacked. It would be better for him to prove himself worthy of the job and lead NYCFC back to a top spot in the Eastern Conference. Still, ten games must be the magic number. The head coach cannot be allowed to lead the team to a non-playoff finish.