Ashley Cole departs England Under-21 set-up after five years to pursue club management

Ashley Cole has ended his five-year association with England’s Under-21 set-up, the Football Association confirmed, with the former left-back believed to be seeking a return to club-level coaching.

Cole joined the Under-21s as part of Lee Carsley’s staff and played a significant role in the side’s consecutive European Championship victories. Carsley paid tribute to his departing colleague, saying Cole had a “positive, inspirational impact on his players” and crediting him with “a key role in the current campaign with his tactical and technical knowledge.”

“I want to pay tribute to Ashley who played a major part in our two Euro wins,” Carsley added. “I am certain he will have even more success in his coaching career whatever the future holds.”

Cole, who earned 107 caps for England and won three Premier League titles and a European Cup during a playing career that ended in 2019, has steadily built his coaching credentials since hanging up his boots. He worked under Frank Lampard at Derby County, spent time at Chelsea’s academy, and served as assistant manager at both Everton and Birmingham City.

In March, Cole took his first head coaching appointment, joining Italian Serie B club Cesena. However, he departed in June after just a few months in charge, citing a shift in the club’s direction.

“As my tenure at Cesena FC concludes today, I want to thank the players and staff for their hard work and commitment over the last few months,” Cole wrote on social media. “I was proud to bring my experience to such a passionate club, and I’ve truly enjoyed working with the squad to introduce a new identity and prepare for the season ahead.”

He added: “Following recent discussions with the Sporting Director regarding a change in the club’s strategy, I have decided that it is best for me to move on. I leave with great respect for all the people there, as well as the fans, and look forward to my next challenge.”

Widely regarded as one of England’s finest ever defenders, Cole’s next move will be closely watched. Having now experienced both international coaching and a first senior management role abroad, he appears determined to establish himself as a head coach in club football.