Joe Cole on early fame, Arteta, and a dream of England management
Joe Cole, the former Chelsea and England star, reflects on being labelled spoilt at 16.
He recalls a warning from someone who worked with rock stars about fame sticking at the same age for life.
“That doesn’t bode well for me,” he says ruefully.
“I was in the public eye at 16 and thrust in front of the media.”
“You grow up, you become a dad, but you’re still a footballer.”
“And then, all of a sudden, it stops but your whole identity is still wrapped up in it.”
The former West Ham Chelsea and England man has long felt ahead of his time, a talent years before his peers.
He smiles when asked his age: “Forty four. I am forty four this Saturday.”
“My wife will laugh if she reads this, but you emotionally mature quite quickly as a footballer.”
He also speaks of admiring Mikel Arteta and of a big dream to manage England someday.
TLDR
- Joe Cole explains how early fame shaped his identity and outlook.
- He cites admiration for Mikel Arteta and a long term dream to manage England.
- The interview portrays a seasoned pro who blends honesty with ambition.
Joe Cole
Chelsea