Mudryk set for Chelsea return after shortened suspension

Mykhailo Mudryk is reportedly on course to rejoin Chelsea after a lengthy absence, with the Ukraine international expected to arrive in Hong Kong and link up with the club’s training camp in the coming days.

Return after a long break

According to Ukrainian outlet sport.ua, Mudryk was due to travel to Hong Kong on Monday, 3 August. The winger is now expected to resume work with Chelsea after an extended period away from the pitch following a suspension for doping.

The latest development follows a decision by the English Football Association to shorten his ban. Sport.ua reported that the basis for that ruling was a change in WADA’s technical standards, under which the level of meldonium found in the player’s sample is no longer treated as a positive result.

Mudryk’s last appearance on a football pitch came in July 2024, underlining the scale of the interruption to his career.

Chelsea to assess next steps

Mudryk is expected to join Chelsea’s camp before a friendly against Juventus. His condition and readiness are set to be evaluated by new Blues head coach Xabi Alonso, after which a decision is expected on the player’s role in the London club’s squad for the coming season.

That assessment could be significant for both player and club. Mudryk remains under contract at Chelsea until 2031, and his return to training offers the first clear indication that he may yet have a part to play after a prolonged period of uncertainty.

Controversy during suspension

Even while sidelined, Mudryk remained a controversial figure. In Poland, he drew major criticism over comments made during a Counter-Strike 2 session involving Polish players. The exchange began with remarks urging him to return to the pitch, before escalating into offensive responses from the Chelsea winger referencing Volhynia and 1939.

The fallout extended beyond football. Faceit also sanctioned Mudryk with a four-week ban from play on its platform.

A pivotal moment for player and club

Mudryk’s return to Chelsea training does not in itself settle questions about his future, but it does mark an important turning point. After months dominated by suspension and controversy, attention will now shift back to football matters and to Chelsea’s internal decision on how, or whether, he fits into plans for the season ahead.

• Mudryk is expected to join Chelsea’s camp in Hong Kong.
• His doping suspension was shortened by the English Football Association.
• Sport.ua said the decision was linked to updated WADA technical standards on meldonium.
• Xabi Alonso is set to assess the player before a decision on his role.
• Mudryk is under contract with Chelsea until 2031.