Former English defender Ashley Cole is expected to leave Italian Series B page Cesena in late June after a disappointing eight games as head coach, according to reports in Italy.
Cole, who took over in March, was handed his first full-time managerial role as Cesena looked to strengthen their bid for a place in the promotion play-offs.
However, results failed to improve following his appointment, leaving his future at the club in doubt.
A difficult start after a controversial appointment
The former Arsenal and Chelsea full-back replaced Michele Mignani, a decision that reportedly caused frustration among fans, players and club officials.
Although Mignani oversaw a poor run of form in the final months of his tenure, Cesena remained in the play-off positions when he was sacked.
Italian media reports claim that several players are unhappy with the decision, while former sporting director Filippo Fusco has also spoken out against the move. Some members of the team were reportedly emotional after learning of Mignani’s departure.
Cole’s appointment is believed to have been strongly backed by co-owner Mike Melby, who developed a relationship with the former England international during their time at LA Galaxy in the United States.
Bad results weaken the prospects for an extension
Results on the field did little to assuage concerns about the coaching change.
Under Cole, Cesena managed just one win from eight Serie B games, drawing three and losing four. The club ended up in 11th place in the league standings, missing out on a place in the play-offs.
There have been suggestions that Cesena could explore the possibility of extending Cole’s contract beyond the June 30 expiry date.
However, reports from Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that discussions on a new contract have cooled significantly.
The report adds that Cole is now expected to leave the club when his contract expires later this month, ending a short and challenging chapter in his coaching career.
His departure would leave Cesena searching for a new manager ahead of preparations for the 2026-27 Serie B season.
