According to Italian media outlet football-italia, former England international Ashley Cole is set to resign as head coach of Serie B club Cesena after taking charge for just eight matches.

Cole took over in mid-March when Cesena was pushing for a Serie B promotion playoff spot. This was the former Chelsea and Arsenal left-back's first full-time head coaching role.

Cole, who played for Roma for two years at the end of his playing career, faced an uphill battle upon his return to Italy. His appointment came amid reports that Cesena fans and players were deeply unhappy with the dismissal of former coach Michele Mignani.

Although Mignani had lost eight of his last 13 matches as Cesena coach, the team remained in a promotion playoff spot thanks to a strong start to the season before his sacking.

Former Cesena sporting director Filippo Fusco reportedly disagreed with Mignani's dismissal, and some players were visibly emotional upon learning of his departure.

It was widely believed that the decision to appoint Cole was made by the club's California-based co-owner Mike Melleby, who had worked with the Englishman during their time at LA Galaxy.

However, even before Cole's poor record of one win in eight matches, Cesena fans, players, and the sporting director remained unhappy with the mid-season coaching change.

Ultimately, Cesena finished the 2025-26 Serie B season in 11th place, with Cole recording one win, three draws, and four losses.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, while there were brief discussions about a contract renewal—Cole's contract with Cesena expires on June 30th—it now appears almost certain the Englishman will depart by month's end.