Former England international Ashley Cole, now 45, has embarked on his first head coaching role, taking the reins at Italian Serie B club Cesena. The legendary left-back, who retired from playing seven years ago, steps into a challenging environment with the club currently ninth in Italy’s second division, battling for a playoff spot.
Cole’s appointment in mid-March followed the sacking of previous manager Michele Mignani. He was approached by Mike Melby, one of Cesena’s American co-owners, at a time when the team was struggling, having not secured a win in six or seven games.
Despite this being his debut as a head coach, Cole expresses confidence in his extensive preparation. “While it is true this is my first head coaching role, the body of work I’ve done over my seven years on the grass [as a coach] means there is nothing more I could do to prepare,” Cole stated. “The hours I’ve put in, the experiences I’ve had, and the managers and coaches I’ve worked under have guided me to a place where I feel ready and that I should be a head coach. I am definitely thankful to Cesena for the opportunity, but I have more than enough experience.”
A new chapter in Emilia-Romagna
Cesena, a working-class city of fewer than 100,000 people in Emilia-Romagna, holds a significant connection for Cole. He met his Italian wife, Sharon Canu, a decade ago while playing for Roma, a club he also represented during Cesena’s most recent Serie A season in 2014-15. During that campaign, Cole lined up against the very club he now manages.
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The club itself boasts a proud history, having spent 13 seasons in Serie A and even qualifying for the Uefa Cup in its mid-1970s golden era. Notable former players who have graced the Stadio Dino Manuzzi include:
- Emanuele Giaccherini
- Sebastiano Rossi
- Massimo Ambrosini
- Vincenzo Iaquinta
Immediate impact and a Serie A vision
Cole’s tenure began with a defeat, but he quickly steered the team to a crucial 3-1 victory against fellow playoff contenders Catanzaro. In the dressing room and on the training pitch, Cole operates with a blend of English and Italian, aided by Nicola Capellini, a staff member from the Primavera (youth team) and an ex-player, who acts as a crucial linguistic bridge. Players affectionately refer to their new coach as “Mister.”
Cole’s football philosophy is clear: an attacking, possession-based style focused on intensity, playing between the lines, and fast transitions. He aims for his team to sustain attacks, stay in the opposition’s half, and emphasizes that wingers should be focused on offensive contributions.
Looking beyond the immediate playoff chase, Cole has a grander vision for Cesena, aspiring to return the club to Italy’s top flight. “100%. Since I’ve been here, I’ve seen a dramatic change in the players’ mentality. They’ve embraced change and want to be better,” Cole affirmed. “I’m not saying it will happen this season, but the idea going forward is that we need to be in Serie A.”
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Sources: www.theguardian.com
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