Chelsea has confirmed that Mykhailo Mudryk has failed a drug test after an “adverse result” emerged from a routine urine sample. The club revealed that they were informed of the findings by the Football Association (FA).
A player who tests positive for banned substances could face a suspension of up to four years. This news marks yet another setback for Mudryk, who has faced difficulties adapting since his high-profile move to the Premier League.
In a statement released on their official website, Chelsea emphasized that the Ukrainian international had not intentionally consumed any prohibited substances.
The statement read: “Both the club and Mykhailo fully support The FA’s testing programme and all our players, including Mykhailo, are regularly tested. Mykhailo has confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances. Both Mykhailo and the club will now work with the relevant authorities to establish what has caused the adverse finding. The club will not be commenting any further.”
The 23-year-old winger has not played for Chelsea since November 28. Although included in the squad for Sunday’s victory over Aston Villa, he did not feature, with Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca attributing his absence to illness.
Mudryk addressed the situation through his Instagram account, writing: “This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules, and am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.Â
I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon. I cannot say any more now due to the confidentiality of the process, but I will as soon as I can.”
Originally linked with Arsenal, Mudryk eventually signed for Chelsea in January 2023 for a reported £89 million fee.Â
However, he has struggled to secure a consistent starting role. This season, he has made 15 appearances for the Blues, scoring three goals.
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