Chelsea have confirmed that Under-21s head coach Calum McFarlane will take charge of the first team for Sunday's Premier League encounter against Manchester City.
The announcement follows Enzo Maresca's sudden departure from Stamford Bridge by mutual consent on New Year's Day.
The Italian's exit came after a significant disagreement with the club's senior leadership, bringing an abrupt end to his 18-month spell in west London.
Maresca had guided Chelsea to two trophies during 2025 and returned them to the top four, yet the hierarchy determined that a change was necessary to revive the campaign.
Who is Calum McFarlane? The Chelsea Under-21 boss set to take charge against Man City
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The timing leaves the Blues scrambling just three days before facing Pep Guardiola's title contenders.
McFarlane, who is 40 years old, will address journalists at Friday's pre-match press conference, stepping into a slot originally scheduled for Maresca before his abrupt exit.
The youth team boss arrived at Stamford Bridge only last summer, having spent two years overseeing Southampton's academy sides.
Intriguingly, McFarlane began his coaching journey at Manchester City, serving as assistant manager within their youth setup between June 2020 and July 2021.
He subsequently earned promotion to assistant manager of City's Under-18s, remaining in that role for a further two years before his move to the south coast.
Calum McFarlane is set to step up for Chelsea's match against Man City
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His return to the Etihad will come under vastly different circumstances.
Chelsea's recent form makes the assignment particularly daunting for the interim boss.
The Blues have managed just a single victory across their previous seven Premier League fixtures, a run that has prompted serious concern at board level.
Manchester City currently occupy second position in the table and will be eager to capitalise on their opponents' struggles.
McFarlane has enjoyed considerable success with the development squad, securing six wins from nine Premier League 2 matches this season.
He has worked closely with promising youngsters including defender Harrison Murray-Campbell, midfielder Reggie Walsh and striker Shumaira Mheuka, whilst also providing opportunities for senior players such as Axel Disasi.
Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Maresca on a permanent basis.
Enzo Maresca was sacked on New Year's Day
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The former defender, who previously served as Wayne Rooney's assistant at Derby and managed Hull City in the Championship, has reportedly impressed Chelsea's hierarchy with his suitability for their structured approach.
Rosenior's current club operates as a feeder team for the west London outfit, making any transition considerably smoother.
Liam Rosenior is the frontrunner to succeed Enzo Maresca permanently
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Reports suggest the club are confident of finalising their appointment within days, though no permanent manager will be in place before Sunday's fixture.
McFarlane is not expected to remain in charge beyond the weekend encounter at the Etihad.