Ashley Cole Maintains Arsenal Ties Through WhatsApp Group Two Decades After Chelsea Switch
Ashley Cole may have left Arsenal under contentious circumstances, but the legendary left-back has disclosed he retains a strong connection to his formative club through a dedicated WhatsApp group. This revelation comes as Cole embarks on his inaugural senior managerial role with Italian Serie B side Cesena.
WhatsApp Group Bridges Past and Present
In a candid interview with the i Paper, Cole confirmed he participates in a WhatsApp group that includes former Arsenal board member David Dein, legendary manager Arsène Wenger, and numerous ex-teammates from the iconic Invincibles squad. "We're all in a WhatsApp group with David Dein, Mr Wenger, all the players," Cole stated. "I meet Thierry not a lot, but we're always talking about football."
Despite his acrimonious £5 million transfer to Chelsea in 2006, which saw William Gallas move to Arsenal as part of the deal, Cole emphasized the enduring bonds with his former colleagues. "I've had my own life and our family so I don't get much time to interact with them," he explained, "but there were moments in my life when I needed them."
Dein's Lingering Regret and Cole's Arsenal Legacy
David Dein, who vigorously attempted to keep Cole at Highbury, has repeatedly expressed disappointment over the defender's departure two decades ago. During his tenure at Arsenal, Cole achieved significant success, securing:
- Two Premier League titles
- Three FA Cup victories
His subsequent move to Chelsea yielded further honours, including another Premier League crown, the Champions League, the Europa League, and four additional FA Cups. Cole became an integral part of Chelsea's trophy-laden core alongside Petr Cech, John Terry, Frank Lampard, and Didier Drogba.
Henry Hailed as Greatest Teammate
When questioned about the finest player he has ever shared a pitch with, Cole unequivocally named Thierry Henry. "Thierry Henry. I'm not saying it lightly," he affirmed. "I came into an Arsenal team that was full of stars, but some of the stuff I saw on the training pitch with him was just incredible."
Cole elaborated on Henry's influence, highlighting both his exceptional talent and personal qualities. "Not just the amazing player he was, but as a great person – that counts for a lot," he remarked. The defender also acknowledged the guidance of other Arsenal stalwarts like Tony Adams and Martin Keown, who helped shape his character during his formative years.
Cole's New Challenge at Cesena
Cole's revelation coincides with his appointment as manager of Cesena, marking his first senior managerial position. The Italian club currently occupies 8th place in Serie B and has endured a seven-match winless streak, with their last victory occurring in February against Pescara.
Prior to this role, Cole accumulated coaching experience as:
- Chelsea's youth team manager
- Assistant manager to Lee Carsley with England's U21 squad
- Assistant to Frank Lampard at Everton and Chelsea
Cesena presents a formidable challenge, requiring Cole to make an immediate impact to reverse their recent struggles. As he steps into this demanding role, his enduring connections with Arsenal's past luminaries through modern technology underscore the lasting relationships forged in football's competitive arena.
