Meet Chelsea’s new interim manager, Calum McFarlane

Chelsea have turned to Calum McFarlane to steady the club for the remainder of the season following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior.

The decision came less than a day after a 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, a result that extended the club’s losing run and left their campaign at risk.

McFarlane steps in on an interim basis for the second time this season.

The 40-year-old now faces the task of guiding Chelsea through their final fixtures, with a place in Europe still uncertain and an FA Cup semi-final to come.

Coaching pathway

McFarlane built his coaching career in youth football before stepping into senior roles and he worked within Manchester City’s academy, where he served as assistant manager of the under-18 side.

He later moved to Southampton, taking charge of youth teams across different age groups. His time there included spells with the under-18 and under-21 squads.

In 2025, he joined Chelsea to lead the under-21 side, marking his first role within the club’s structure.

First-team introduction

McFarlane’s move into senior management came earlier this season following the exit of Enzo Maresca.

He took charge of two matches as interim head coach before Rosenior’s appointment. After that, he remained with the first team as part of the coaching staff.

His return to the role reflects the club’s reliance on internal options during a period of change.

Previous spell in charge

McFarlane’s first stint in charge produced mixed results as Chelsea drew 1-1 with Manchester City before losing 2-1 to Fulham.

The draw against City came late, while the defeat at Fulham followed a sending-off that affected the balance of the game.

Those two matches remain the only senior fixtures he has overseen at the club.

ALSO READ: BREAKING: Chelsea sack Rosenior after three months in charge

Context of appointment

Chelsea’s decision to part with Rosenior followed a run of five league defeats without scoring. The sequence is the club’s worst in more than a century.

The team sit seventh in the table and remains outside the Champions League places. With limited games left, the margin for error is small.

Club officials indicated that a change was required with key matches still to be played.

Immediate task

McFarlane’s first assignment is an FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United at Wembley.

That fixture offers a route to silverware and a chance to stabilise the season.

He will also oversee the final league matches, where Chelsea are competing for a place in Europe.