Enzo Fernández scored a 94th-minute equaliser as Chelsea snatched a 1-1 draw at Manchester City, just four days after Enzo Maresca left the club by mutual consent.
Understanding is Chelsea will announce Liam Rosenior as Maresca's replacement before Wednesday's trip to Fulham. The former Derby and Hull defender, currently in charge of Strasbourg, has agreed terms on a two-and-a-half-year deal worth approximately £3.5m per season.
For now, under-21 coach Calum McFarlane took the reins at the Etihad. The 40-year-old was heading to a light show in Windsor with his family when he received the call to prepare the team for one of the most daunting fixtures in English football.
His tactical adjustments at half-time proved decisive. Switching fullbacks Josh Acheampong and Malo Gusto nullified City's threat in wide areas. Moving Fernández into a number 10 role gave Chelsea more presence in the final third. When Gusto crossed from the right in stoppage time, Fernández was there to prod home at the second attempt after Gianluigi Donnarumma initially saved.
What happened to Maresca?
Sources indicate the Italian's departure was precipitated by tensions over player management. Medical staff recommendations regarding match loads and playing time were allegedly overridden on multiple occasions. The final straw came during the festive period when Maresca reportedly ignored specific instructions about limiting certain players' minutes.
Chelsea released a statement on New Year's Day confirming the split: "With key objectives still to be achieved in four competitions, including qualification for the Champions League, Enzo and the club feel that a change would give the team the best chance to get the season back on track."
Maresca had three years remaining on his contract. Understanding is he will receive a settlement of around £8m. The Italian is expected to take a break before considering his next move, with interest from Serie A clubs anticipated.
City's injury crisis deepens
Manchester City's title hopes took another hit both on the scoreboard and in the treatment room. Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias both departed injured, leaving Pep Guardiola with just four fit senior defenders.
"It does not look good," Guardiola admitted post-match. "When you have all the squad, you can compete and rotate, but now it is a situation."
Tijjani Reijnders had given City the lead just before half-time with an emphatic left-footed finish, his third goal in three games. The Dutch midfielder continues to impress in his deeper role following Rodri's long-term absence, though the Spaniard did complete 90 minutes for the first time since September.
City remain six points behind Arsenal having dropped five points in their last two home matches. The defending champions next face Brentford at the Etihad on Saturday before a crucial trip to Villa Park on January 13.
What's next for Chelsea?
McFarlane earned praise for his approach against City but is expected to return to youth team duties once Rosenior is appointed.
"This is not an easy job," McFarlane reflected. "There is a lot of change that has gone on. Enzo [Maresca] was incredibly successful with this group, some were shocked by the decision. The character they have shown, Reece [James], Tosin, Enzo [Fernández] have really dragged the group together."
Chelsea sit fifth, twelve points behind second-placed Aston Villa but very much in the Champions League race. Their next three fixtures – Fulham, Bournemouth, and Crystal Palace – offer an opportunity to build momentum before Rosenior takes charge.
Further updates to follow.
