Terry ‘Frustrated’ Over Chelsea Caretaker Choice

Former Chelsea captain John Terry says he is “frustrated” at being overlooked for a caretaker role following Enzo Maresca’s departure as head coach in January.

Terry, who works two days a month as a part‑time mentor in Chelsea’s academy, was not included among the staff appointed to take temporary charge for the matches against Manchester City and Fulham after Maresca’s surprise exit.

Full‑time Under‑21s coach Calum McFarlane was chosen as caretaker boss after Maresca left the club following a dramatic falling out behind the scenes.

Current head coach Liam Rosenior later took the role permanently after joining from sister club Strasbourg.

Asked by the Golf Life YouTube channel, if he was annoyed by the decision, Terry replied: “Not annoyed, probably more frustrated, because I was certainly part of that Under‑21s group that went over.

“So even if I didn’t take the team… Calum took the team, did really well, got a result out of the game. I feel like I should have been part of that.

“Now listen, people have got to make decisions. I love it when people make decisions and they go ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Clearly the ownership, or whoever made those decisions – the sporting directors – have gone ‘no’ not to include me, for whatever reason. I don’t know why.”

Terry now manages an indoor six-a-side influencer team in Baller League, called the 26ers.

McFarlane, by contrast, currently holds only a Uefa B Licence. However, officials still felt he was the more appropriate interim option, given his regular involvement with Maresca in his Under‑21s role. His side also played a similar system to Maresca’s, and it was felt he would step in more seamlessly.

He has since impressed Rosenior and earned a promotion to his first‑team staff.