Ashley Cole has been appointed head coach of Serie B side Cesena, marking his first managerial role. The former Arsenal, Chelsea and England left-back, 45, has been working as a coach since retiring in 2019.
Cole's coaching career has included stints alongside Frank Lampard at Derby County, Chelsea and Everton, as well as with Wayne Rooney at Birmingham City. He has also worked with the England national team and the Football Association.
Cesena, currently eighth in the Serie B table, dismissed Michele Mignani on Saturday. Cole has signed a short-term deal until the end of June, with an option to extend based on certain conditions.
The club's statement read: 'The entire Cesena FC family is thrilled to welcome manager Ashley Cole to lead the Bianconeri first team and extends a warm welcome to him and his staff in Cesena, wishing them all the best of luck in this new adventure.'
Former Chelsea academy coach Jack Mesure will assist Cole at the Italian club.
