Mudryk could return on Wednesday after drugs suspension

What the report says

Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk could make his first appearance in about 20 months after being included in the squad for Wednesday’s friendly against Juventus in Hong Kong, according to BBC Sport Football. The 25-year-old Ukraine international has not played since November 2024, when he was provisionally suspended after an adverse analytical finding for the banned substance meldonium. BBC Sport says he was cleared to return last week after his case was resolved with the Football Association.

New Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso said Mudryk is available for selection, though he suggested it would be too soon for a full 90-minute outing. The report adds that Mudryk joined training after arriving in Hong Kong, took part in drills with the squad and was greeted warmly by supporters at Kai Tak Stadium during an open session. He had also trained on Monday and was described as being back in the group environment after a long spell away.

BBC Sport reported that Chelsea, Mudryk and his representatives are now using a two-week assessment period to judge how he adapts to elite-level training again. The club is expected to use that period to decide on his immediate future, with interest already reported from several Premier League and overseas teams. The situation matters because it could determine whether Mudryk stays at Chelsea, moves on loan or pursues another transfer route before the end of the window.