Chelsea: New boss Calum McFarlane’s remarkable rise

The softly-spoken McFarlane is an enigma. He has only a small social media presence. He has established a successful football coaching career away from the limelight.

He grew up in Forest Hill, south London, and in his words, was a “failed footballer”, who moved into youth coaching.

Alongside part-time roles at Crystal Palace and Fulham‘s academy, McFarlane started coaching Lambeth Tigers.

There, a chance meeting shaped his future.

There were two boys from Norway at the club who just happened to be the sons of former Tromso player Thomas Hafstad.

“In 2012, I spent a year in London observing academies at different clubs in England,” Hafstad, who played 260 games for the northernmost football club in the world, told BBC Sport.

“Instantly, I could see Calum was a very good coach. He listened to the players – young boys of 11 and 12 – and really understood how to work with them.”

Hafstad, now Tromso technical director, said it was easy to see McFarlane “would be a great asset”.

“Even then, he had a strong knowledge of the game, but what stood out most was his man‑management,” he added.

Hafstad took McFarlane to Tromso, initially as as an Under-14s coach.

“He did very well in two years with us,” said Hafstad.

“He moved up to coach the under‑19s and even took first-team sessions. At the time, we were in European competitions, so it was a strong period for the club.

“We’ve stayed in touch. I spent a few days at Chelsea‘s academy in November last year, so we still have a close connection. I have no problem believing he could become a top manager in the near future.”