NYCFC parts ways with head coach Pascal Jansen after missing MLS Cup Playoffs

By Vancouver Television Sports Desk

New York City FC has parted ways with head coach Pascal Jansen, the club announced on Sunday morning. The decision came after NYCFC concluded the 2026 MLS campaign 11th in the Eastern Conference standings with 42 points, missing the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for just the third time in club history.

In announcing the change, NYCFC sporting director Todd Dunivant said the move follows “a thorough review of the season” and reflects the club’s organizational ambition. Dunivant added that the search for the club’s next head coach begins immediately as NYCFC prepares for the 2027 Sprint Season and builds toward the opening of Etihad Park.

Jansen’s appointment began in January 2025, when he took over after NYCFC parted ways with Nick Cushing. Before joining NYCFC, Jansen previously led Hungarian powerhouse Ferencvárosi TC and held coaching experience that included several seasons with Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar.

NYCFC’s statement noted that in Jansen’s first season with the club, NYCFC finished fifth in the Eastern Conference and reached the 2025 Eastern Conference Final. Despite that postseason run, the club’s 2026 campaign ended without a playoff berth, prompting the organization to make a leadership change heading into the next phase of its build-up to a new venue.

NYCFC CEO Brad Sims said the club is grateful for Jansen’s dedication during his tenure and acknowledged the disappointment of missing the playoffs. Sims also pointed to an “exciting and historic new chapter” for the club next year, linking the club’s long-term aim to consistently competing at the highest level and bringing more trophies to New York City.

Looking ahead, NYCFC said Etihad Park—its new 25,000-seat stadium—will be unveiled on July 17, 2027. The club’s upcoming schedule will also include the 2027 Sprint Season, and through the 2026 period NYCFC has primarily played home matches at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field.