McFarlane arrived at the club in the summer, taking charge ahead of pre-season, and it’s been a whirlwind start to life in the Blues dugout.

His side made an early statement in the Premier League 2 with a 3-1 opening-day victory over reigning champions Manchester City, before following it up with an emphatic 5-0 away win at Newcastle United.

In the EFL Trophy, the squad has taken on the challenge of facing senior opposition - battling against Shrewsbury Town and Northampton Town - which has provided invaluable learning experiences in physical, competitive environments.

Also, after returning to the UEFA Youth League for the first time since 2022, the Blues have made a strong impression. We secured an impressive 3-2 win away at Bayern Munich, followed by a thrilling 5-2 victory over Benfica at Cobham in our second game of the league phase.

You’ve now been the Under-21s head coach for a few months. How have your first weeks at Chelsea been?

‘It’s been really enjoyable. Of course, it’s been challenging too. A lot of the lads and the staff, myself included, haven’t experienced this kind of schedule before.

‘It’s intense. You’re basically preparing for a game every three days unless there’s an international break. That means we’ve had to be really creative with how we manage the schedule. Our focus has been on getting the players ready, keeping them sharp and making sure they’re physically and mentally prepared for what’s next.

‘So yes, it’s been tough, but really rewarding. There have already been some great moments in these early weeks.’

Are there any stand-out moments from this period that you look back on with pride?

‘The way we started the season really stands out. We won our first three league games, which gave us a strong platform.

‘The performance against Manchester City was a particular highlight. Beating last season’s champions with real control and style set the tone and gave the players belief that they can compete at the highest level.

‘Coming back after the break and playing Bayern Munich was another great experience. The players loved the occasion and embraced the challenge.

‘We did have a dip in form after that. We've had some disappointing results against Ipswich, Northampton and Stoke, but the Benfica game felt like a real turning point. That’s one of the toughest matches you’ll face at this level and I thought the boys were outstanding. Hopefully that’s us back on track.’

How have you seen the group develop in recent weeks, both in training and in matches?

‘There’s been clear progression. It's not just in performances, but in how the group is handling the demands of this level.

‘It’s not only about tactics or technical quality, it’s about emotional maturity too. Learning to bounce back, learning to adapt, managing the rhythm of the season. The lads have shown real resilience and a hunger to keep getting better.’

It’s been a demanding fixture list. How have you and the players coped physically and mentally?

‘We’ve had to be smart. You simply can’t train at full intensity every day when you’re playing every three days.

‘It’s about striking the right balance. Ensuring the players get the recovery they need, preparing properly for each challenge and keeping them mentally fresh. That’s been one of the biggest challenges so far, but also an area where we’ve already grown a lot.’

You’ve had two huge Youth League fixtures already. What has that experience been like?

‘It’s been amazing. I haven’t coached in the Youth League before, so every part of it has been new and really exciting.

‘The quality of the opposition is top-class. Playing away in Germany, in a stadium you haven’t seen before, with the added pressure of travel and representing the club in Europe, it forces the players to grow up quickly.

‘You can’t switch off, not even for a minute. A five-minute lapse and you’re punished. It’s a brilliant competition because it tests players and staff in ways you don’t always get in domestic football.’

There was a strong staff presence at Cobham for the Benfica game. Did that support make a difference?

‘Absolutely, it genuinely felt like home. The atmosphere was brilliant. The energy was there and the players felt it. In difficult moments during the match, I think that support gave them an extra push.

‘Sometimes that extra five or ten per cent can make all the difference, and on that night I think it did.’

Some of your players have been involved with the men's team on matchdays. How proud are you to see that?

‘It’s one of the best parts of this job. Seeing them step into that environment is what we’re here for.

‘They’ve worked hard and earned their opportunities. We’re all really proud of their progress and we’ll keep supporting them to keep pushing forward.’

You’ve also had younger Academy players stepping into the Under-21s. How have they handled the transition?

‘They’ve been brilliant. We’ve had Under-18s and even a couple of schoolboys stepping up to this level, playing against opponents who are two or three years older.

‘The older lads in our group have done a fantastic job helping them settle, guiding them through games and setting the right standards.

‘But most importantly, those younger players have taken their opportunities. They haven’t just filled in, they’ve performed. That’s exciting to see.’

Finally, with the international break here, what’s your message to the squad - both those heading away with their countries and those staying at Cobham?

‘For the lads heading away, it’s an incredible honour to represent your country. Many of them had excellent international breaks last time out, so the message is simple: go and keep those standards high.

‘For those staying back, it’s a chance to reset. Get some rest, reflect and be ready to go again. Because once we’re back, the games come thick and fast.

‘Whether they’re away or here, it’s all about staying focused and prepared for what’s next.’

McFarlane's Chelsea Under-21s side return to action after the break with our opening fixture of this season's Premier League International Cup campaign, hosting Dinamo Zagreb at Kingsmeadow at 2pm on Saturday 18 October.

All Chelsea season ticket holders, members and supporters aged under 20 can claim a free ticket for the game here until midday on Friday 17 October, with general sale tickets also available priced £4, online or at the Kingsmeadow ticket office before kick-off.

The match will also be shown live for free on the Chelsea Official App and website.