Problem 1: The Formation Keeps Changing—What’s the Actual Setup?

So, you’ve been watching Chelsea under Calum MacFarlane since he stepped in as interim manager, and something feels off. The formations shift, the results are inconsistent, and you’re not alone in wondering what’s actually happening on the pitch. Let’s break down the common tactical headaches fans are facing, what you can do about them, and when it’s time to call in the experts—or just accept the chaos.

Problem 1: The Formation Keeps Changing—What’s the Actual Setup?

You’ve seen MacFarlane roll out different shapes, and it’s confusing. You’re not sure which one is the “real” system.

What’s Going On?

MacFarlane isn’t a long-term appointment with a fixed philosophy like Antonio Conte’s 3-4-3 in 2017. He’s adapting week-to-week based on opponent strengths, injuries, and the squad’s youth. With a young squad and a high transfer spend, he’s trying to maximize talent like Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez while covering defensive gaps.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Check the pre-match lineup announcements. MacFarlane often tweaks formations based on the opponent’s press. Against high-pressing teams, he has favored a setup with Moises Caicedo as a shield.
2. Watch the first 10 minutes. The real shape reveals itself early. If you see Reece James pushing high and Levi Colwill tucking in, it’s a back three.
3. Ignore the graphic on TV. Broadcasters often guess. Track player positions yourself for the first 15 minutes.

When to Call It a Specialist Concern

If you’re trying to predict lineups for FPL or betting, stop. MacFarlane’s rotations are unpredictable, and no one outside the dressing room knows his plan until kickoff. This isn’t a fixable issue—it’s the reality of an interim manager navigating a turbulent season.

Problem 2: The Attack Looks Disconnected—Why Isn’t the Passing Clicking?

You watch Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Alejandro Garnacho running into each other, while Palmer drops deep to get the ball. The chemistry seems off, and goals are drying up.

What’s Going On?

MacFarlane inherited a squad built by Todd Boehly’s transfer strategy—packed with young talent like Estevao Willian and Pedro Neto, but lacking a settled attacking structure. Palmer’s creative freedom clashes with Delap’s direct runs, and Garnacho’s width isn’t always utilized.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Focus on the midfield pivot. Caicedo and Enzo are the key. If they’re bypassed, the attack gets isolated. Watch for Caicedo dropping between center-backs to start moves.
2. Identify the “free man.” MacFarlane often designates one attacker (usually Palmer) as a roaming playmaker. If he’s marked, the system breaks down.
3. Track substitutions. MacFarlane frequently swaps wide players like Neto and Garnacho after 60 minutes to inject pace. If you see changes early, he’s chasing a goal.

When to Call It a Specialist Concern

If you’re analyzing this for a fan podcast or tactical blog, you’ll need to watch full 90-minute replays. General frustration? It’s a squad still gelling—check the squad profiles for 2025-26 to understand individual roles. But if you’re betting on goalscorers, don’t. The attack’s inconsistency is a feature, not a bug.

Problem 3: Defensive Gaps Keep Appearing—Why Are We Conceding So Many?

You’ve noticed Chelsea conceding late goals, especially after leading. The backline—Colwill, James, Cucurella, Chalobah—looks solid on paper, but there’s a leak.

What’s Going On?

MacFarlane’s high defensive line works against weaker teams but gets exposed by quick transitions. The midfield protection from Caicedo and Enzo isn’t always synchronized.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Watch the full-back positioning. James and Cucurella push high. If they’re caught upfield, the center-backs are exposed. Note if MacFarlane instructs one to stay back.
2. Check the press triggers. Chelsea presses when the opponent plays a square pass. If you see a striker (Delap or Joao Pedro) sprinting at the goalkeeper, the press is active. If they’re jogging, it’s a low block.
3. Look at the 70-minute mark. That’s when fatigue hits this young squad. Conceding late? It’s a fitness issue, not tactical.

When to Call It a Specialist Concern

If you’re a coach trying to replicate MacFarlane’s system, you’ll need video analysis tools. For fans, this is a common issue with interim managers—they don’t have time to drill defensive shape. Read about Todd Boehly’s transfer strategy to see why the squad’s balance is off.

Problem 4: I’m Confused About the Manager’s Future—Is He Staying?

You hear rumors MacFarlane might get the job permanently, but then there’s talk of a new search. You’re not sure how to interpret the noise.

What’s Going On?

MacFarlane was a temporary fix. The club’s board hasn’t committed publicly, and the season’s instability means no one knows.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Ignore social media rumors. Only official Chelsea FC statements matter. Check the club’s website, not fan accounts.
2. Watch for performance trends. If Chelsea finishes strongly, MacFarlane’s case strengthens. If they limp to mid-table, a new manager is likely.
3. Focus on the squad. The players’ reactions—like Palmer’s body language—tell you more than press conferences.

When to Call It a Specialist Concern

This isn’t a troubleshooting issue; it’s media speculation. If you’re writing for a fan site, stick to facts. For personal anxiety, remember: interim managers are temporary by definition. The club’s long-term plan isn’t yours to solve.

MacFarlane’s Chelsea is a work in progress—young, talented, and messy. The tactical problems you’re seeing are real, but they’re also normal for a squad in transition. If you’re looking for deeper context, check out how Conte’s 2017 title-winning side handled similar growing pains. For now, enjoy the chaos, trust the process, and don’t overthink the formation graphic.