Former Chelsea and England left-back Ashley Cole has revealed his frustration at the lack of job opportunities in English football, which led him to take up his first managerial role at Italian Serie B side Cesena. The 44-year-old was appointed last month and has since overseen four matches, winning one, with Cesena currently sitting eighth in the table.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Cole said he felt 'discouraged' by the response from some English clubs, who cited his lack of experience. 'They like to throw the 'you don't have experience' line. And I'm like, I get what you're saying, I agree - but how am I going to get experience?' he said. 'That's the battle you have to fight as a number two for six or seven years - you have to take a leap of faith, but a club also has to take a leap of faith.'
Cole acknowledged that his move to Italy represents a significant step, particularly as there are few Black English coaches working abroad. '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 and I'm very proud to be here,' he said. He added that the issue extends beyond himself, noting that many ex-Black players complete their coaching badges and apply for jobs but are not given opportunities.
Cole's immediate goal is to help Cesena gain promotion to Serie A, but he also harbours ambitions of winning silverware as a manager. 'I am not going to be a Jose Mourinho - I don't hold that stature or respect because I haven't won anything,' he said. 'I have to take little bits from them, be myself and trust my process, and focus on Cesena. I want to work and hopefully, one day, I can win a trophy.'
