Ashley Cole's managerial career has begun with a significant setback, as his Italian Serie B side Cesena FC suffered a comprehensive 3-0 away defeat this week. The 45-year-old former England defender was appointed head coach on Sunday, just one day after the club dismissed previous manager Michele Mignani. However, there was no evidence of a new-manager bounce during Tuesday night's performance against Mantova.
A Disastrous Start on the Road
Cesena's troubles started early at the Stadio Danilo Martelli when defender Giovanni Zaro scored an unfortunate own goal in just the sixth minute, handing the hosts an immediate advantage. The visitors managed to reach halftime trailing by only one goal, but their defensive vulnerabilities resurfaced twelve minutes after the restart. Andrea Meroni doubled Mantova's lead with a well-taken finish, putting Cesena firmly on the back foot.
Late Goal Compounds Misery
To add considerable insult to injury, Leonardo Mancuso struck Mantova's third goal deep into stoppage time during the third minute of added play. This late blow ensured Cole's side would make the 122-mile journey home with their push for a playoff place significantly dented. Cole, who appeared optimistic and gave a thumbs up to travelling supporters before kickoff, cut a visibly frustrated figure by the final whistle.
No Time to Dwell on Defeat
The former Arsenal and Chelsea star will have little opportunity to reflect on this disappointing debut. Cesena are scheduled to face US Catanzaro this Saturday in Cole's first home game at the Stadio Dino Manuzzi. Catanzaro currently sit three places above Cesena in the Serie B standings, presenting another challenging fixture for the new manager.
Cole's Coaching Background
Since retiring from professional football in 2019 after making over 700 appearances, Cole has built substantial coaching experience at various levels. He most recently worked with the Football Association as a full-time national coach and has served as assistant manager to Frank Lampard at both Everton and Chelsea. Cole also held the same role at Birmingham City during Wayne Rooney's brief tenure as manager.
The 107-cap England international has additionally worked with the Under-21 national side and assisted Lee Carsley with the senior squad. However, this move to Italy represents Cole's first official role as a manager in his own right. He will be joined at Cesena by Chelsea academy coach Jack Mesure on a contract that runs until 30 June, with the club holding an option to extend should certain performance targets be met.
A Distinguished Playing Career
As a player, Cole enjoyed remarkable success at the highest level. He won the Champions League with Chelsea, along with a Premier League title and four FA Cups during his storied tenure at Stamford Bridge. The defender also lifted the Europa League, League Cup, and Community Shield with the Blues.
Cole initially broke through at Arsenal, where he secured two Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and two Community Shields. He has previous experience on Italian soil, having joined Serie A giants AS Roma from Chelsea in 2014. After spending two years in Rome, Cole moved to LA Galaxy before finishing his playing career at Derby County.
Off the pitch, Cole was previously married to Girls Aloud star Cheryl Tweedy during his playing days. The couple divorced in 2010 after four years of marriage. Now, all attention turns to whether Cole can translate his extensive football knowledge into managerial success following this inauspicious beginning.
