Ashley Cole has stepped down from his role as an England Under-21 coach after five years, ending a successful spell with the national youth setup.
The former Arsenal and Chelsea defender was an important member of Lee Carsley's coaching staff during a period of major success for England Under-21s.
The team secured consecutive European Under-21 Championship titles, with Cole contributing his tactical and technical expertise behind the scenes.
Cole moved into coaching after ending his illustrious playing career in 2019.
His departure from the England Under-21 setup comes after a period in which he established himself as an increasingly experienced coach, having worked across academy, club and international football.
Ashley Cole Leaves England Under-21 Coaching Staff After Five Years
The 45-year-old joined the England Under-21 coaching team in 2021 and quickly became an influential figure within the group.
His experience as one of England's most decorated defenders provided valuable insight for a generation of young players attempting to make the transition into senior football.
Working alongside Carsley, Cole was part of the coaching staff that helped England win the European Under-21 Championship twice in succession.
His role extended beyond his experience as a former international defender, with his coaching knowledge and understanding of the modern game making him an important member of the backroom team.
Before joining the England Under-21 coaching staff, Cole completed his coaching qualifications at Derby County while working under Frank Lampard.
He subsequently gained further experience with Chelsea's academy before moving into first-team coaching roles.
His coaching journey also included spells with Everton and Birmingham City, where he worked under Wayne Rooney.
Cole was later involved with England's senior side during Carsley's brief period as interim manager in 2024.
Lee Carsley Pays Tribute to Cole's Impact on England's Under-21 Success
Carsley paid tribute to Cole following his departure, highlighting the former full-back's influence on the players and his contribution to England's success.
"Ashley had a positive, inspirational impact on his players," Carsley said on Tuesday.
"I want to pay tribute to Ashley who played a major part in our two Euro wins and also had a key role in the current campaign with his tactical and technical knowledge."
Carsley also expressed confidence that Cole will continue to develop and achieve success as a coach.
He added: "I am certain he will have even more success in his coaching career whatever the future holds."
Cole's next move remains unclear as he continues to build his coaching career.
What Next for Ashley Cole After England Under-21 Exit?
As a player, Cole enjoyed one of the most successful careers of any English defender of his generation. He won 107 England caps and collected major honours with both Arsenal and Chelsea.
His trophy cabinet includes three Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, seven FA Cups and one League Cup.
After retiring in 2019, Cole turned his attention to coaching and has since steadily expanded his experience.
Similarly, his coaching ambitions have already taken him outside England.
In March, he was appointed head coach of Serie B side Cesena in his first major managerial position.
However, his time in Italy was short-lived as Cole left Cesena in June following discussions with the club's sporting director about a change in the club's strategy.
