Could Ashley Cole leave Roma?
Leaving Chelsea after 8 wonderful years filled with success left Ashley Cole searching for a new club in what became the most important summer of his career to date.
The 34-year-old was tipped to seek a new adventure by moving to the MLS, but Rudi Garcia pounced upon the availability of a top quality left-back who still has a lot to offer to bring him to Roma. It represented an excellent move for Cole, who gained the opportunity to end his illustrious career on a high through winning more major honours.
Moving to Italy appeared a perfect fit, particularly as Roma were looking for a left-back to add more solidity to their defence and mount another serious challenge for the Serie A title to overthrow Juventus’ dominance. However, the Englishman’s spell with Roma could be short lived, with rumours persisting of a move away from the club during the January transfer window.
Limited appearances
Joining Roma appeared to be the perfect fit for both parties, but his move to Italy has not worked out as well as many would have thought for Cole. In his pursuit for left-back options, Garcia also signed Juan Holebas and Urby Emanuelson to create real competition for a place in the first team.
Although Cole was instantly integrated into the starting line-up, he struggled to adapt to Italian football and was taken out of the firing place in place of Holebas. The Greek international has unfortunately shone since he was given his chance, keeping Cole on the sidelines.
He has not played since the 2-1 win at Atalanta on November 22nd, with Cole cutting a frustrating figure as he has been restricted to just 8 Serie A appearances this season.
Where now for Cole?
Although Garcia has recently declared that Cole remains part of his plans at Roma, it is unlikely that he will be happy to play second fiddle for the rest of the season. Staying in Italy may ultimately depend on whether he can force his way back into the first team picture, but Cole would not be short of options if he chose to leave the capital.
A move back to the Premier League would not be out of the question, although there is more chance that the 34-year-old will seek a final swansong by moving to the United States.
Joining an MLS team may become more lucrative to Cole following the news that former England international team-mate Steven Gerrard is set to join LA Galaxy in the summer, and with the likes of Kaka and David Villa also poised to star during the 2015 season, it could be the perfect time for the left-back to move.