John Terry expresses disappointment over Chelsea coaching snub
John Terry has expressed his disappointment at being overlooked for Chelsea’s temporary coaching arrangements following Enzo Maresca’s departure at the start of January, reports BritPanorama.
The former Blues captain, who holds a part-time consultancy position within the club’s academy structure, was not included when the hierarchy assembled an interim management team. At 45, Terry remains one of Stamford Bridge’s most decorated figures, having made over 700 appearances and winning five top-flight titles as well as the Champions League.
Terry currently works with Chelsea’s Under-18 and Under-21 squads, where he imparts his considerable experience to the next generation. Speaking on Jimmy Bullard’s Golf Life YouTube channel, he described his reaction to the snub, stating, “Not annoyed. Probably more frustrated because I was certainly part of that under-21s group that went over.” He added, “Even if I didn’t take the team. Obviously, Calum took the team and did really well. Got a result out of the game.”
Further questioning the decision, he remarked, “I feel like I should have been part of them,” and expressed confusion regarding why the ownership or sporting directors opted against including him. The choice to appoint McFarlane over Terry raised eyebrows, particularly given the difference in their coaching qualifications — Terry holds the UEFA Pro Licence, while McFarlane possesses only a UEFA B Licence.
Despite this, McFarlane performed reasonably well during his brief tenure, where Chelsea managed a commendable 1-1 draw against Manchester City, though they later lost 2-1 to Fulham after a red card for Marc Cucurella. McFarlane has since been integrated into Liam Rosenior’s first-team coaching staff.
Terry acknowledged that his ultimate ambition is to manage Chelsea, yet admitted that realising this goal may necessitate patience. “I’ve always said if Chelsea ever come up I would love to take over, but then, realistically, do I get Chelsea without doing the other bits? Probably not,” he commented. He also dismissed recent speculation linking him with the Oxford United vacancy, asserting there was “no truth” to such claims.
For now, he remains content working with Chelsea’s youth teams, fostering the potential of the future while wrestling with the occasional pang of frustration at managerial dynamics.
