Chelsea Interim head coach Calum McFarlane says managing Chelsea’s senior team is not significantly different from his previous coaching roles, despite stepping into the position during a turbulent season.
McFarlane has twice taken charge on an interim basis during the 2025–26 campaign. He first replaced Enzo Maresca in January, overseeing two matches including a 1–1 draw against Manchester City FC, before returning to an assistant role following the appointment of Liam Rosenior.
He was reappointed in April after Rosenior’s dismissal and made an immediate impact, guiding Chelsea to a 1-0 win over Leeds United FC to secure a place in the FA Cup final.
Speaking to Sky Sports, McFarlane suggested that the transition from youth to senior football has been relatively smooth.
” I’ve coped well, I think. It’s actually not that much different from the job I’ve done for the last 15 years. You’re working with people, obviously players of a much higher profile, you’re playing against the pressures there in terms of playing in the Premier League, in terms of FA Cup semi-finals, but it actually feels quite similar to coaching”
While he downplayed the differences in day-to-day coaching, McFarlane acknowledged that managing established international players brings its own challenges.
“There’s definitely differences. You’re dealing with Enzo Fernandes, who’s a World Cup winner, you’re dealing with Reese James, who’s a Champions League winner, so they’re a lot more experienced than working with 19, 20-year-olds in the academy. They have their opinion, they have their view on the game, but ultimately we’re all in this together and we all want what’s best for Chelsea”
Chelsea’s season has been marked by inconsistency in the Premier League, where they currently sit ninth with 48 points. However, their progress in cup competitions has offered a contrasting narrative.
The club will face Manchester City FC in the FA Cup final on 16 May, presenting an opportunity to secure silverware and potentially reshape the outlook of their campaign.
With European qualification still within reach, McFarlane’s immediate focus will be on maintaining momentum and guiding the team through the final weeks of the season.
