Parma and former Arsenal assistant manager Carlos Cuesta are reportedly poised to extend their partnership following a successful inaugural season. The coach’s appointment last summer was a surprise, as he lacked prior head coaching experience. His previous roles included assisting at Juventus’ youth team and, notably, under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal from 2020 to 2025.
Cuesta’s Strong Debut Season with Parma
Cuesta’s first season proved to be highly positive. Parma secured a comfortable 12th place in Serie A, accumulating 11 wins, 12 draws, and 15 defeats. This performance ensured their safety in the league.
While there were some suggestions that the club might seek a coach with a more proactive and creative style, given Cuesta’s continuation of Arteta’s defense-first philosophy, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Parma is very satisfied with Cuesta. The club is prepared to retain him for the upcoming season.
At just 30 years old (turning 31 in July), Cuesta is younger than many of his players. His current contract extends until June 2027, meaning no new agreement is necessary; the focus is on maintaining the current arrangement.
English Translation
Carlos Cuesta to Continue at Parma, Club Happy with First Season
Parma and former Arsenal assistant manager Carlos Cuesta are reportedly ready to continue together after a strong first season.
The coach was an entirely unexpected choice last summer, as he had no previous experience in a head coaching role. He had previously worked only as an assistant manager for the Juventus youth team and their Under-23 Next Gen side, and then under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal from 2020 to 2025.
Cuesta Had Strong Parma Debut
It proved to be a more than positive campaign, as Parma amassed 11 wins, 12 draws, and 15 defeats, allowing them to comfortably secure Serie A safety in 12th place.
There had been some reports that the club wanted to see someone more creative and with a proactive style of football, as Cuesta had carried on the Arteta approach of defense and safety first.
However, transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano insists Parma are very happy with Cuesta and prepared to keep him on for next season.
The tactician only turns 31 in July, making him younger than many of the players in his squad. His contract runs to June 2027, so no new agreement is required; the intention is to maintain the current status.