Ashley Cole Opens Up on 'Leap of Faith' After Landing Surprise Cesena Job
Chelsea icon Ashley Cole has candidly revealed the challenges he faced in securing his first managerial position, which ultimately led to his surprising appointment as head coach of Serie B side Cesena last month. The former England left-back expressed frustration with the lack of opportunities in English football, prompting his move to Italy.
Frustration with English Football Opportunities
In an interview with BBC Sport, Cole admitted to feeling "discouraged" by the limited job prospects within English clubs. He highlighted a common barrier faced by aspiring coaches: the catch-22 of needing experience to land a role but struggling to gain that experience without being given a chance.
"I was getting kind of discouraged by a lack of opportunities, from some clubs in England I spoke to," Cole stated. "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 emphasized that both coaches and clubs must take a "leap of faith," noting that his appointment at Cesena represents a significant step, especially as one of the few black English coaches working in Italy.
Broader Issue for Black Coaches in Football
Cole pointed out that his struggle is not isolated, suggesting a systemic problem in football where many former black players pursue coaching badges and apply for jobs but face limited success. "It's clear there are a lot of ex-black players but not a lot of ex-black coaches. Are they doing their coaching badges? Yes, they are. Are they applying for jobs? Yes, they are," he said.
He added, "That's clear - that's a fact. If that is the case, then for sure there is a problem. But I can't comment on things I don't know." This statement underscores ongoing concerns about diversity and inclusion in coaching roles across the sport.
Early Results and Future Ambitions at Cesena
Since taking over at Cesena, Cole has overseen four games, securing one win. This run has left the club sitting eighth in Serie B, with the primary goal of achieving promotion to Serie A. Despite the early mixed results, Cole remains optimistic about his new role.
"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 remarked. "It is a great place to be and to start. I'm glad I'm back. We're going to do something different - a bit special."
Drawing Inspiration from Legendary Managers
Looking ahead, Cole aspires to win trophies in his managerial career but acknowledges he must forge his own path rather than emulate famous figures like Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, or Rafa Benitez. "I am not going to be a Jose Mourinho - I don't hold that stature or respect because I haven't won anything," he explained.
He plans to incorporate elements from successful managers while staying true to himself, focusing on developing Cesena and building his coaching legacy. "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," Cole concluded.
