Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has been provisionally banned from football after a failed doping test.
The 23-year-old Ukrainian international reportedly tested positive for a banned substance during a recent doping test, according to Ukrainian outlet Tribuna.
The initial test’s A-sample indicated the presence of a banned substance, although the specific drug has not been disclosed.
The analysis of Mudryk’s B-sample is currently underway, with the results expected in the coming days.
The results of the B-sample will determine whether the initial test is upheld, potentially leading to a significant suspension of up to four years for the Chelsea star.
🚨 According to sources, Mudryk has tested positive in a doping test. In the A sample, a banned substance was found, in the end of October. The “B” sample is expected to be opened in the next days. (@tribunaua via @ZoryaLondonsk ) #CFC pic.twitter.com/0SSiNtH2hQ
— Pys (@CFCPys) December 16, 2024
Mudryk Doping Allegations
Mudryk, who joined Chelsea in January 2023, has struggled to live up to his hefty £88.5 million price tag, scoring 10 goals in 73 appearances.
The player has been excluded from Chelsea’s matchday squads for a few weeks, with the club citing his absence as due to illness.
Mudryk’s last appearance came on November 28, when he scored in a UEFA Conference League clash against Heidenheim.
While he was named in the squad for Chelsea’s December 1 match against Aston Villa, he did not feature on the pitch and has been absent ever since.
A potential four-year suspension would not only derail Mudryk’s career but also force Chelsea to rethink their squad dynamics and strategy.
BREAKING: Chelsea confirm the FA have contacted Mykhailo Mudryk over an adverse finding in a routine urine test 🚨 pic.twitter.com/gHWcSKscFV
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) December 17, 2024
Chelsea Release Statement on Mudryk
The club has since released an official statement on the matter, stating, “Chelsea Football Club can confirm the Football Association recently contacted our player Mykhailo Mudryk concerning an adverse finding in a routine urine test.
“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.”
What’s Next for Mudryk?
The upcoming B-sample results are pivotal. Should the initial findings be confirmed, Mudryk will face a lengthy suspension that could severely impact his trajectory.
Doping bans are among the longest in sports, with the severity of them reflecting the importance of integrity in competition.
As of now, neither Chelsea nor any governing bodies involved have made public comments regarding the case. Stay updated on the Mykhailo Mudryk doping allegations and other breaking football news with SportsCasting.