Advertisement
McFarlane expresses belief in players on return to Chelsea’s hot seat as interim coach
24th April, 2026 05:29 PM
Chelsea interim boss Callum McFarlane, back as interim head coach, has remained optimistic about the club’s ability to turn around its fortunes, backed by the talent of the players in its ranks.
Speaking at Chelsea’s press conference on Friday, April 24, 2026, ahead of the crucial FA Cup semifinal against Leeds, McFarlane, who took over the role after the sacking of Liam Rosenior, insisted that they will be looking to replicate another good performance against a top side despite the Blues reeling from a poor run of form.
Rosernior sacked, McFarlane in
The London club was thrashed 3-0 by Brighton at the Amex on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, marking Chelsea’s fifth consecutive defeat in the Premier League since 1993, in what proved to be the last straw for the English manager’s stint at the helm of the club.
Rosenior, along with his coaching staff, was sacked on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, via a statement from the club.
Optimism and belief
With McFarlane stepping in to hold the fort, the gaffer is looking ahead with optimism.
“There’s still a lot of belief in this group. I know it has been tough recently, but we have had some good games this year, good performances against top sides,” he stated. “A lot of talent, and there is still a lot of belief in us to turn this around and get back on track.”
On his tactical approach for the game, the gaffer opted to play his cards close to his chest, only adding:
“I have got a good relationship with the players; our process will be the same as when I did interim before. I work the way I know how to work, everyone is on board, and we are ready for Sunday. I don’t think I am going to talk tactically today. I will keep that private.”
McFarlane’s first stint as interim boss occurred immediately following the departure of Enzo Maresca on January 1, 2026.
During this tenure, which lasted until Liam Rosenior’s appointment on January 8, 2026, McFarlane oversaw two matches. leading the Blues to a 1-1 draw against Manchester City and a 2-1 defeat to Fulham FC.
The FA Cup semifinal against Leeds remains Chelsea’s only hope for season silverware in what has been a dismal campaign by the standards of the reigning world champions.
