Chelsea’s interim head coach, Calum McFarlane, was officially introduced to the first team on Friday after a whirlwind 24 hours following Enzo Maresca’s sudden departure from the club. McFarlane’s first task is to lead the team in their upcoming clash against second-placed Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
Maresca, who had been at the helm for 18 months, left his position just one day earlier, with Chelsea sitting fifth in the Premier League—15 points behind league leaders Arsenal. Maresca’s exit followed a difficult run of form, with Chelsea winning just one of their last seven league matches.
In his first comments as interim manager, McFarlane shared his excitement and the intensity of the situation: “It’s been a crazy 24 hours, a whirlwind, as you can imagine, but also really enjoyable, really exciting, so I can only feel positive about this,” he said, speaking to reporters on Friday.
McFarlane, who had previously been working with Chelsea’s Under-21 team, said that he was warmly welcomed by the senior squad, noting the strong culture of support at the club for younger players. “I met with a few of the individuals beforehand but I was officially introduced this morning,” McFarlane explained.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his tenure, McFarlane expressed confidence ahead of the Manchester City match. “Training today was exceptional,” he said. “The players seem really focused, really driven, and hungry. They know it’s a massive game on Sunday and we’re going to have to be at our best. You can feel the intensity.”
McFarlane’s main task is to prepare Chelsea for the challenge of facing Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, a team known for its dominance and depth. “They’re professionals,” McFarlane added. “They’ve done this a long time. They’ve been here before.”
Regarding the future, McFarlane was candid, stating that he was unsure how long he would be in charge. “The brief is to prepare the lads for Manchester City on Sunday, and that’s honestly all I know at the moment.”
Maresca’s exit followed speculation about his potential move to Manchester City, where he reportedly held talks to succeed Pep Guardiola. Under Maresca’s leadership, Chelsea had a mixed record but managed to secure a place in the Champions League, as well as winning the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup.
Liam Rosenior, the head coach of French club Strasbourg, is the frontrunner to replace Maresca permanently, although his lack of Premier League experience has raised questions.
As McFarlane and Chelsea brace for the upcoming Manchester City clash, the club’s leadership and supporters are hoping for a strong response in what promises to be a challenging fixture.
