Sun Jan 04 17:30:00 UTC 2026: ## McFarlane Takes the Helm at Chelsea Ahead of City Clash Following Sudden Maresca Departure
London, UK – In a stunning turn of events, Calum McFarlane, previously the head coach of Chelsea’s Under-21s, has been named interim manager of the Premier League club, replacing Enzo Maresca who departed the club on Thursday. The move comes just 18 months after Maresca took over from Mauricio Pochettino.
McFarlane’s first challenge will be a daunting one: a trip to Manchester City to face Pep Guardiola’s side on Sunday. He admitted the appointment has been a “whirlwind” but expressed his excitement for the opportunity. “It’s been a crazy 24 hours, a whirlwind, as you can imagine, but also really enjoyable and really exciting,” McFarlane said. “I can only feel positive about it. It’s an amazing experience.”
The sudden change follows Chelsea’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth on Tuesday, which left them languishing 15 points behind league leaders Arsenal. McFarlane will be looking to instill some stability and a positive attitude in the squad ahead of the tough fixture. “The team needs to be ready and prepared and our role is giving the players the support they need to go and execute,” he stated.
Maresca’s exit has also sparked speculation about his future, with reports suggesting he had been in talks to potentially succeed Guardiola. Guardiola himself addressed the situation, stating, “From my point of view Chelsea have lost an incredible manager and an incredible person.”
Chelsea currently sit three places and 11 points behind Manchester City in the Premier League table. All eyes will be on McFarlane as he steps into the senior management role for the first time against one of the league’s most formidable opponents.
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