Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that winger Mykhailo Mudryk has rejoined the squad in Hong Kong and could be available for selection in the pre-season friendly against Juventus. Mudryk has been sidelined for 18 months after testing positive for meldonium, a banned substance, but was recently cleared to return following a change in World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations.
Alonso Confirms Mudryk's Availability
Speaking to Chelsea TV, Alonso said Mudryk came straight from the airport to the team hotel upon landing in Hong Kong. Both Mudryk and new signing Danny Welbeck are in contention to feature against Juventus, according to the Spanish coach.
“Yesterday was more about the feelings, the emotions to be back with the team more than assessing the fitness level. He could play, maybe 90 minutes too early, but he can be selected. He is selected so he can play,” Alonso said.
No Decision Yet on Mudryk's Future
Alonso acknowledged that the club has not yet settled on a long-term plan for the Ukrainian international, pointing to the speed at which events have unfolded. “No decision made. Everything has happened so quickly, so the main thing is that we were thinking about the person, to feel that he was back in the group dynamic, part of the team,” he added.
“And we need to assess, but for sure... it is a special case with him, so we need to be sensitive,” Alonso concluded.
Mudryk's Training Regimen During Ban
According to the BBC, Mudryk worked hard throughout his ban to maintain his fitness and sharpness. He reportedly hired a private coach and arranged sessions against both goalkeepers and outfield players at Honeycroft Stadium, the home of seventh-tier club Uxbridge FC. He also completed a summer training camp in Austria ahead of his return to the Chelsea squad.
What's Next for Mudryk?
A final decision on whether Mudryk remains at Chelsea or moves out on loan is expected once the club has had time to properly evaluate his physical condition. The winger, who has maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal, thanked everyone who stood by him, particularly Chelsea, after the English Football Association cleared him of the doping charges.
