Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk has stepped onto the football pitch for the first time in over a year and a half as part of London's Chelsea. The long-awaited return took place in Hong Kong, where the team played a friendly match against Turin's Juventus. The event marked an important stage in the resumption of the player's career following the conclusion of the doping investigation.

Return to the pitch after a year and a half

The match against the Italian giant was Mudryk's first game since November 2024. The Ukrainian forward started the match on the bench. He appeared on the field in the 82nd minute, when the Londoners were already losing 0:1 after a precise strike by Žegrov. The head coach of the "Blues", Xabi Alonso, brought the winger on to strengthen the attack.

In total, during the allotted time, including added minutes, Mudryk spent almost 15 minutes on the pitch. This was his first playing time in the last 615 days. Partners actively looked for the winger with passes, however, the Turin defense acted reliably and did not allow the Ukrainian to realize his opportunities.

Statistics and tactics

During the short period on the field, Mudryk completed 4 passes with 75% accuracy, made one dribbling attempt, and won the ball from an opponent. Despite the minimal 0:1 defeat, the match became an important psychological step for the resumption of the player's career.

Mudryk's next chance to prove himself will be on August 8 in a friendly match against Milan. The team continues its pre-season training, and the coaching staff plans to gradually return the winger to match rhythm.

Closing of the doping case

The Ukrainian's doping case was finally closed on July 31 by mutual agreement of the Football Association of England and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Almost immediately after this, Mudryk flew to Hong Kong, where Xabi Alonso's charges are holding pre-season training.

The head coach of Chelsea emphasized that the club will return the Ukrainian to the game gradually. "The most important thing now is to think about the person, to let him feel part of the team again. He is a special player, and this is a special case," noted the Spanish specialist.

Transfer context

Earlier, it was reported that Chelsea announced the transfer of Jordan Henderson. This squad reinforcement is happening in parallel with Mudryk's return, indicating the club's intention to strengthen the team ahead of the new season.