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Chelsea interim head coach Calum McFarlane said he has experienced a “crazy 24 hours” after being thrust into the role following Enzo Maresca’s departure, with a daunting trip to face Manchester City now immediately ahead.
Maresca left Stamford Bridge on Thursday with Chelsea sitting fifth in the Premier League, 15 points adrift of leaders Arsenal, after a run of just one win in seven league matches. His exit paved the way for McFarlane, previously in charge of the club’s under-21 side, to step up temporarily.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, McFarlane admitted the speed of events had been overwhelming but said he was relishing the challenge.
He described the experience as a whirlwind but hinted that it had also been exciting and energising, leaving him feeling positive despite the circumstances.
The 40-year-old confirmed he was formally introduced to the senior squad on Friday morning, although he had already spoken to several players individually beforehand.
He highlighted the strong culture at Chelsea of senior players supporting younger talents, which he believes will help during the transition.
McFarlane’s first task is to prepare the team for Sunday’s Premier League clash away to second-placed Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
He said the standard of training had been outstanding, praising the squad’s focus, intensity, and determination ahead of what he described as a massive test.
He noted that the players understood the scale of the challenge and accepted the need to perform at their highest level.
McFarlane noted that the squad’s experience meant they were well equipped to handle change, having been through similar situations before.
While McFarlane said Chelsea’s hierarchy had offered full backing, he admitted he had not been given any indication of how long he would remain in charge. His only instruction so far, he said, was to prepare the team for the City match.
Maresca’s exit followed reports that he had held discussions with Manchester City regarding a possible future succession plan for Pep Guardiola.
During his 18 months at Chelsea, the Italian guided the club back into the Champions League and lifted both the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup.
Attention has already turned to Maresca’s long-term replacement, with Liam Rosenior emerging as the leading candidate.
The Englishman is currently head coach of French side Strasbourg, a club owned by Chelsea’s parent company BlueCo, despite having no prior Premier League managerial experience.
