McFarlane Says Maresca Sacking Shocked Squad as Leaders Rally for City Point
Enzo Maresca
January 2026
Interim coach Calum McFarlane said Chelsea’s dressing room was shocked by Enzo Maresca’s New Year’s Day dismissal, but senior players pulled the group together. Chelsea drew 1-1 at Manchester City after a late equaliser. McFarlane credited Reece James, Enzo Fernandez and Tosin Adarabioyo for leadership through the transition. City led through Tijjani Reijnders before Enzo Fernandez scored in stoppage time, with the squad framing the result as a response to disruption.