Chelsea Squad Welcomes Mykhailo Mudryk’s Return After Doping Ban Lifted
Mykhailo Mudryk is set to make his return to football after the lifting of his doping ban. The 25-year-old winger has not played for Chelsea since November 2024, following a positive test for meldonium that resulted in a four-year suspension imposed by the Football Association (FA).
Support from Chelsea Teammates
In the wake of the ban’s resolution, several Chelsea players have publicly expressed their support for Mudryk. The FA confirmed earlier this week that the disciplinary proceedings against the Ukrainian player had been concluded. Mudryk had been provisionally banned a month after his failed test.
During his suspension, an appeal was filed with the Court of Arbitration for Sport. A hearing was confirmed in May of the previous year, and written submissions were exchanged. The situation reached a resolution recently, prompting Mudryk to share his relief on social media.
Teammates Levi Colwill and Reece James were among those who shared Mudryk’s official statement on their Instagram stories. Other players, including Romeo Lavia, Nicolas Jackson, Robert Sanchez, and Malo Gusto, followed suit. Additionally, former teammates such as Ben Chilwell, Marc Cucurella, and Christopher Nkunku, along with Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Pedro Neto, and Wesley Fofana, were among the 1.5 million users who liked Mudryk’s post.
Upcoming Friendly Match
Mudryk is expected to travel to Hong Kong to join the Chelsea squad ahead of a friendly match against Juventus scheduled for Wednesday. The news of his return has generated significant excitement among fans and teammates alike, with nearly 60,000 users flooding the comment section of his post with messages of support.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso addressed the media following a recent match against Tottenham Hotspur. He described Mudryk as a “special” player and acknowledged the challenges he faced during his time away from the team. Alonso emphasized the importance of reintegrating Mudryk into the squad, noting that he had been training alone for an extended period.
Manager’s Perspective
Alonso expressed happiness for Mudryk, stating that it is difficult to fully comprehend what he has endured during his suspension. He highlighted the need for Mudryk to feel part of the team again, as he transitions back into a collective training environment. Alonso noted that while it will take time for Mudryk to regain his form, the club is committed to supporting him through this process.
Regarding Mudryk’s fitness and readiness to play, Alonso remarked that it is still too early to determine how quickly he can return to competitive action. He acknowledged the significant change Mudryk has experienced and the challenges of training alone.
Reflecting on Mudryk’s abilities, Alonso recalled the impact he had during his time at Shakhtar Donetsk, emphasizing his speed and skill in one-on-one situations. Alonso reiterated that while Mudryk is a special talent, patience will be required as he readjusts to team dynamics.
As reported by www.mirror.co.uk, the Chelsea squad is optimistic about Mudryk’s return and the contributions he can make moving forward.
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Published on 2026-08-01 22:20:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk