Calum McFarlane, the new face in the Chelsea coaching lineup, held a press conference at Cobham ahead of their match against Manchester City. This Premier League clash marks Chelsea’s first game of 2026, following a recent draw with Bournemouth.
Chelsea’s Upcoming Match at the Etihad Stadium
On Sunday, Chelsea will visit the Etihad Stadium, aiming for a winning start to the new year. McFarlane, who has stepped up as interim manager from his position as Under-21s head coach, is eager to guide the team through this crucial match.
Recent Changes in Coaching Staff
The appointment of McFarlane comes after the departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day. Just 24 hours into his new role, McFarlane emphasizes the importance of preparing for the formidable challenge posed by Manchester City.
McFarlane’s Reflections
McFarlane described the recent changes as both “crazy” and “exciting.” He is focused on preparing the players for the match against City, recognizing the quality of their opponents and their strong management under Pep Guardiola.
Player Fitness Update
During the press session, questions arose regarding player fitness, particularly about Marc Cucurella. Cucurella missed the match against Bournemouth but has returned to training. McFarlane remains optimistic yet cautious about his availability for the upcoming game.
- Marc Cucurella: Positive signs as he is back in training.
- Assessment: Final decision on Cucurella will be made after further evaluation.
- Overall Squad Update: No additional updates on other players were provided.
McFarlane is determined to lead Chelsea in this challenging matchup, highlighting a commitment to performance and positivity. The squad is focused on putting forth their best effort against a highly skilled Manchester City team.
