Callum McFarlane, Chelsea's interim coach, admitted that Marc Cucurella's red card was the critical turning point in the game, leading to the Blues' loss to Fulham and their drop to 8th place in the standings.
On 8 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Callum McFarlane, Chelsea's interim coach, expressed confidence that his team deserved at least one point from the Premier League match in which they lost 1-2 away to Fulham at Craven Cottage.
In this match, Chelsea faced a difficult situation from the 22nd minute when Marc Cucurella was sent off with a red card, forcing an immediate change in the team's strategy. Raul Jimenez and Harry Wilson each scored for the home side, while the Blues managed a consolation goal from Liam Delap.
McFarlane acknowledged that the red card was a key factor that turned the game, but he was still satisfied with his players' response, especially in the second half when Chelsea created several chances.
“It was a very tough game. The red card was a major factor that changed everything. We managed the situation well, except for the moment we conceded the first goal. After that, the team responded excellently. In the second half, we had several important chances and moments. I think we deserved to get something from this game,” McFarlane said.
Additionally, the interim coach pointed out that the problems were not related to the team’s culture but rather stemmed from excessive emotions and intensity during the game.
“It’s not a cultural issue, but a matter of emotions in the game. The players let their emotions run too high, similar to the moment when I myself received a yellow card,” he explained.
The match was attended by Liam Rosnier, Chelsea's new coach who replaced Enzo Maresca. Rosnier watched from the stands and is expected to take charge of his first game on the sidelines in the FA Cup fourth round against Charlton on the evening of Saturday, 10 Jan 2026 GMT+7.
This defeat caused Chelsea to drop to 8th place in the Premier League table, and they will need to quickly regain their form during this transition period under their new coach.