Ashley Cole has departed his role as an England Under-21 coach after five years, having been part of Lee Carsley's coaching team that secured back-to-back European Under-21 titles. Carsley praised the 45-year-old, stating he had a "positive, inspirational impact on his players" and played a major part in both Euro wins, as well as contributing significantly to the current campaign with his tactical and technical knowledge.

Cole, who retired from playing in 2019, began his coaching journey completing badges at Derby County under Frank Lampard. He later worked in Chelsea's academy and held assistant roles at Everton, Birmingham City under Wayne Rooney, and England during Carsley's interim spell as senior boss in 2024.

In March, Cole took charge of Serie B club Cesena but left in June after discussions with the sporting director regarding a strategic shift. He previously expressed feeling discouraged within the English football pyramid about advancing to a managerial role.

As a player, Cole earned 107 England caps and won numerous trophies with Arsenal and Chelsea, including three Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Europa League, seven FA Cups, and one League Cup.