Mudryk could make comeback in Chelsea friendly after 20-month absence
Mykhailo Mudryk has been included in Chelsea's squad for Wednesday's friendly against Juventus in Hong Kong, potentially marking his return to action after a 20-month doping suspension. The Ukrainian winger was cleared last week after resolving his case with the Football Association.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Mykhailo Mudryk is available for selection for Wednesday's pre-season friendly against Juventus in Hong Kong. The 25-year-old Ukraine international has not featured in a competitive match since November 2024, when he was provisionally suspended following an adverse finding for the banned substance meldonium.
Alonso said that Mudryk could play, though a full 90 minutes might be too early. The player trained with the squad upon arrival, and the manager noted the need to assess his fitness and emotions after such a long break. Mudryk was greeted with a huge cheer from fans when his image appeared on the big screen at Kai Tak Stadium during an open training session. He warmed up to Elton John's "I'm Still Standing" and took part in possession drills, even playfully wrestling with defender Tosin Adarabioyo.
The winger was part of a set-piece session led by new assistant Austin MacPhee, followed by a second drill focused on attacking patterns. His return represents a remarkable turnaround. Just 36 hours earlier, he had stepped off a plane from London with several teammates, shortly after the announcement of his renewed availability.
According to those close to Mudryk, he experienced genuine excitement and relief about re-entering the Chelsea dressing room. During the suspension, Chelsea monitored his physical and mental well-being, and many teammates stayed in touch. Mudryk is said to have done everything possible to preserve his career, hiring a private coach and arranging training sessions with goalkeepers and outfield players at Uxbridge FC's Honeycroft Stadium, as well as attending a training camp in Austria.
The timing of his clearance, following discussions between his legal team and the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada), came as a surprise to all parties. At the team hotel, he has been playing table tennis with teammates while fans gathered for autographs.
The question now is whether Mudryk can impress Alonso and regain the form that earned him the nickname "the Ukrainian Neymar." Several clubs, including former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard's Coventry City, have expressed interest in a loan move, along with at least three overseas clubs, particularly from Italy. A move to Strasbourg, also owned by Chelsea's parent group, is possible but would use one of the club's non-EU registration slots.
Chelsea, Mudryk, and his representatives have entered a two-week assessment period to evaluate his adaptation to elite football, with a decision expected before the September 1 transfer deadline. Alonso said no decision has been made, emphasizing the need to be sensitive given the special circumstances. Mudryk's contract with Chelsea runs until 2031.
