Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ashley Cole Takes Charge as Cesena's New Head Coach

3/17/2026

30 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ashley Cole, former Chelsea and Arsenal player, is appointed head coach of Cesena, a Serie B club in Italy, marking his first managerial role.
Since retiring in 2019, he has coached at Derby County, Chelsea's academy, and England Under-21s.
He signed a short-term deal after Cesena sacked Michele Mignani.
The appointment reflects Cesena's ambition for promotion, as the club sits eighth, with Cole favoring an attacking style of play.

History

Historical Context

In 2006, the Italian Football Federation restructured Serie B, enhancing competition and promoting clubs like Cesena, which currently aims for promotion while sitting eighth in the league. The appointment of Ashley Cole as head coach reflects a trend of former players transitioning to management, highlighting the importance of effective leadership in achieving sporting goals as clubs strive for success in Italy's competitive football landscape.

1 of 2

Story summary

Ashley Cole, former Chelsea and Arsenal player, is appointed head coach of Cesena, a Serie B club in Italy, marking his first managerial role.
Since retiring in 2019, he has coached at Derby County, Chelsea's academy, and England Under-21s.
He signed a short-term deal after Cesena sacked Michele Mignani.
The appointment reflects Cesena's ambition for promotion, as the club sits eighth, with Cole favoring an attacking style of play.

1 / 2