AS Roma left-back Ashley Cole has revealed that he didn’t leave Chelsea because of the rift between himself and manager Jose Mourinho.
The English defender completed his Serie A switch after he was released by the Premier League side at the end of the season, and after being revealed to the thousands of Roma fans, Cole confirmed that his relationship with Mourinho had nothing to do with his move away.
The 33-year-old becomes the first ever Englishman to play for AS Roma, and he has admitted that it was an easy choice for him to make as he wanted to continue playing in the Champions League.
Cole was deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge after losing his place to Cesar Azpilicueta, and due to his age, he was only on a rolling 12-month contract and it was decided this year would be his last.
Speaking in Italy, Cole revealed the reasons behind his move and opened up about his Mourinho relationship.
He said: “I decided to come here in order to continue to play in the Champions League at a great and ambitious club.
“This is a great challenge and I am ready, I am ready to fight for a place in the team and to try to win.
“Were there issues at Chelsea with Jose Mourinho last season? I’ve always had a good relationship with Mourinho, then as the years have gone by I was probably not as useful to Chelsea and my agent told me of the chance to come to Roma.
“There were discussions with the staff, I saw how much the club wanted me and that considered me useful to their project and I jumped at the opportunity.
“I arrive at an ambitious club and hope to win here. Now it is premature to compare [Mourinho and Rudi Garcia], perhaps in six months it will be possible with a full knowledge of the club.
“What makes a good coach? A good coach is good in the management of his men, he gives all of his players the desire to fight until the last.
“During my career I have had great coaches like Wenger, Mourinho and Scolari and I am certain that at Roma it will be the same.
“I do not fear the pressure to win because I spent 14 years in England always fighting for a starting spot and that’s what I want to continue doing.
“It is a special atmosphere, I immediately realised the passion of the people for their love of this club.
“But this is also the reason why I am here, to experience these emotions and enjoy the city and this experience.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt – @AlexsArticles
