Ashley Cole has taken his first senior head coach position at Italian second-division side Cesena, a move he describes as a "whirlwind" start to his managerial career. This opportunity in Italy, where he previously played, emerged after Cole found himself "discouraged" by a lack of similar head coach openings in England. The former England international is now navigating the challenges of managing in Serie B, a league where his Cesena side is considered underdogs in the working-class town of fewer than 100,000 people.
Transition to Management
Cole's journey into management has been a deliberate, if somewhat circuitous, path. While he has held assistant coaching roles at clubs including Everton, Birmingham City, and with the England national team, these experiences were apparently not deemed sufficient for a head coach role by English clubs. His prior work included assisting Frank Lampard at Everton and Birmingham, and a stint with the England senior team staff under Lee Carsley following Gareth Southgate's departure.
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Cole remarked on the distinctiveness of his new environment, noting he is still adapting to the Italian honorific 'Mister,' bestowed upon all managers.
His time in Italy as a player with Roma likely informed his comfort in returning to the country for this significant career step. The shift from player to coach involved an ongoing process of building his coaching education, including pursuing coaching badges.
Player's Philosophy and Coaching Influences
During his playing days, Cole was known for his attacking prowess and was a pivotal figure in Chelsea's European successes, including winning the Champions League and Europa League. He also earned 107 caps for England. These experiences as a player have shaped his approach to coaching.
"The first thing I learned on my coaching badges was that every coach is a thief!" Cole stated, highlighting his philosophy of synthesizing different ideas.
He has cited a desire to incorporate elements from managers he played under, mentioning Jose Mourinho for his organization, Carlo Ancelotti for man-management and player expression, and Arsene Wenger for his trust in young players and allowing them to learn from mistakes. Cole emphasizes adapting these influences to his own style rather than direct imitation.
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"Everyone has their own philosophy but you also have to take ideas that you like from different coaches," he explained. "He won’t try to mimic or copy anybody, instead reflecting on what approach worked on him as a player and adjusting things as required."
Seeking Trust and Development
The core of Cole's current managerial challenge, he suggests, lies in establishing trust with his players.
"The players have to trust what I’m asking them to do," he asserted, reflecting on the tactical decisions and team setup, such as pressing strategies and defensive formations.
He views the half-time interval as a critical juncture for assessment and adjustment, where the team must either "sink or swim." This direct approach underscores his commitment to developing a distinct playing style for Cesena. His background as a player who was once labelled a "rat" for his transfer from Arsenal to Chelsea suggests a complex relationship with public perception, yet he now aims to be a guiding figure.
