The Serie B post is Cole's first senior management job.
"I was getting kind of discouraged by a lack of opportunities, from some clubs in England I spoke to," Cole told BBC Sport.
"They like to throw the 'you don't have experience' line. And I'm like, I get what you're saying, I agree - but how am I going to get experience?
"That's the battle you have to fight as a number two for six or seven years - you have to take a leap of faith, but a club also has to take a leap of faith.
"I don't think there are too many black English coaches working in Italy, so yes, it is a massive leap of faith from them and I'm very proud to be here.
"It is a great place to be and to start. I'm glad I'm back. We're going to do something different - a bit special."
Cole added: "I am not going to be a Jose Mourinho - I don't hold that stature or respect because I haven't won anything. Carlo Ancelotti is cool and calm - and a successful player and manager - so I can't be him. I can't be a Rafa Benitez.
"I have to take little bits from them, be myself and trust my process, and focus on Cesena. I want to work and hopefully, one day, I can win a trophy."