Interim Chelsea head coach Calum McFarlane is confident his team can replicate their impressive performance against Manchester City at the Etihad back in January, as they prepare to face off again in the FA Cup final this Saturday.
In his debut match in senior management, McFarlane faced Pep Guardiola and managed to turn the tide in the second half of their Premier League clash, making tactical adjustments that earned his team a crucial point.
A stoppage-time goal from Enzo Fernández leveled the score after Tijjani Reijnders opened the scoring for the opposition, providing a strong response just days after the unexpected dismissal of head coach Enzo Maresca.
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Fast forward four months, McFarlane finds himself back in a crucial role, having stepped up from first-team coach following Liam Rosenior’s sacking in April, and is committed to leading the team through the season’s conclusion.
“It was a valuable learning experience,” McFarlane reflected. “The first half was challenging; we didn’t prepare well enough. City maintained a lot of control, and we didn’t want to see the match unfold that way. We had to endure tough moments, run hard, and defend our box effectively.”
Trailing at halftime, McFarlane introduced Andrey Santos into midfield, allowing Fernández to advance in position, where he has historically excelled.
Cole Palmer shifted from the No. 10 role to the right wing, while fullbacks Josh Acheampong and Malo Gusto were repositioned. Gusto’s forward runs proved pivotal in the equalizer as he provided the assist for Fernández’s goal.
“We made several adjustments in the second half to shift momentum and play more aggressively, gaining more territory,” McFarlane explained. “It paid off, as we established a foothold in the game.”
“I believe the players deserve the credit for this. While I can offer instructions, there are always moments when things can go awry. The determination they displayed was remarkable—we fought hard for that point.”
The upcoming match at Wembley is seen as Chelsea’s final opportunity to secure European qualification this season, following a disappointing run that yielded just one point from their last seven games.
Reece James and Levi Colwill are expected to be available for selection following their respective injuries.
Colwill made his first start of the season in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield after dealing with an anterior cruciate ligament injury since preseason, while James made his first appearance since March 14 as a substitute.
The timing of James’ return is fortuitous, especially with Thomas Tuchel preparing to finalize his 26-man World Cup squad, particularly after Arsenal’s Ben White was ruled out due to injury.
“Reece is a crucial player for both this team and England,” remarked McFarlane. “He is one of the most well-rounded footballers in the world.”
“I’m truly glad Reece was able to come through his issue and performed well during the week leading up to the Manchester City match. He’s in good form.”
Report contributed by PA.