Former England defender Ashley Cole is set to take charge of Serie B side Cesena, according to reports from Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
The Italian club recently parted ways with coach Michele Mignani, leaving the team in eighth place in the Serie B table, just one point behind seventh-placed Juve Stabia.
Poor form in recent weeks has influenced this decision. Since a 2-0 win over Pescara on February 6, Cesena have suffered defeats against Virtus Entella, Venezia, Spezia and Monza, while drawing with Empoli, Modena and Frosinone.
The 45-year-old has left the England U21 national team staff and is expected to be officially appointed as the head of Cesena.
Cole enjoyed a remarkable career as one of the best left-backs of his generation, representing big clubs such as Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as playing for Crystal Palace, Roma, LA Galaxy and Derby County.
In total, he made 702 appearances in all competitions and scored 21 goals, winning three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups and one Champions League, among many other trophies. He was capped 107 times by the England national team.
After retiring from football, Cole began a career in coaching, holding roles at Derby County, England U21s, Everton and Birmingham City. He also served as assistant manager during Lee Carsley’s interim spell in charge of the England national team.