Ashley Cole has resigned as manager of Italian Serie B side Cesena after only eight games in charge, winning just one match. The former England and Chelsea left-back, 45, was appointed in March on a contract until the end of the 2025-26 season, tasked with securing a play-off spot. However, Cesena slipped from eighth to 11th, recording one win, three draws, and four defeats under his tenure.
Brief Tenure and Poor Results
Cole took over with Cesena occupying the final play-off position, aiming for promotion to Serie A for the first time since 2015. Despite the club's ambitions, his side managed only one victory in eight games. At the end of the season, brief discussions about his future occurred, but according to reports, Cole chose to leave. His appointment, alongside former Chelsea academy coach Jack Mesure, had been met with scepticism from the fan base.
Background and Context
Cole replaced Michele Mignani, who was sacked after losing eight of his last 13 games. Cesena sporting director Filippo Fusco reportedly disagreed with the decision, and some players were said to have been in tears upon learning of Mignani's dismissal. American co-owner Mike Melby, who knew Cole from his time with LA Galaxy, was a driving force behind the hiring.
Cole's coaching career includes assistant roles under Frank Lampard at Chelsea and Everton, alongside Wayne Rooney at Birmingham City, and with Lee Carsley during his interim stint as England manager. His wife, Sharon Canu, is Italian, and the couple met during Cole's playing spell at Roma. In an April interview with the Guardian, Cole said, "It was always in our plans to live in Italy because we love the food and the calmness of the country. She told me the fans here are passionate about their team and their city. I had to embrace that, understand what makes them tick, so we can represent them properly." He added, "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."
What's Next for Cole?
Cole is expected to seek his next coaching position. Despite the short stint, his experience in Italy and previous assistant roles may open doors elsewhere. Whether he will pursue another head coach role or return to an assistant position remains to be seen.
