Ashley Cole Takes Over Italian Side Cesena FC As Head Coach

Former England defender Ashley Cole has launched his first senior head coaching role in Italy, taking charge of Cesena FC after growing frustrated by the lack of opportunities back home.

The 107-cap ex-left-back admitted he felt “discouraged” by repeated rejections from English clubs, despite building nearly seven years of experience as an assistant coach.

“I was getting kind of discouraged by a lack of opportunities from some clubs in England I spoke to,” Cole told BBC Sport on Thursday.

Since retiring, he worked under Frank Lampard at Derby County, moved through Chelsea’s academy, and held roles at Everton, Birmingham City (with Wayne Rooney), and within the England setup alongside Lee Carsley. Yet when he pursued a head coach position, he often heard the same objection.

“They like to throw the ‘you don’t have experience’ line. And I’m like, I get what you’re saying, but how am I going to get experience? That’s the battle you have to fight as a number two for six or seven years. A club has to take a leap of faith too.”

Cole’s move to Italy brings him back to a country where he played late in his career at AS Roma. He acknowledged the significance of the appointment.

“I don’t think there are too many Black English coaches working in Italy, so yes, it is a massive leap of faith from them. I’m very proud to be here.”

He called Cesena the ideal place to begin his head coaching journey: “It’s a great place to start. I’m glad I’m back. We’re going to do something different, a bit special.”