Mudryk returns to Chelsea squad as Alonso weighs next step

Mykhailo Mudryk could make his first appearance in 20 months on Wednesday, after being named in Chelsea’s squad for the friendly against Juventus in Hong Kong. Xabi Alonso said he is available for selection, though a full 90 minutes is too soon as Chelsea ease him back after his anti-doping case was resolved.

The return has been dramatic. Mudryk received a big cheer at Kai Tak Stadium, trained fully with the squad and looked visibly relieved to be back with teammates after a long spell away from football. Chelsea have been careful with him physically and mentally, and Alonso said the immediate focus is on the person and the group dynamic before making any footballing judgement.

Mudryk’s road back has been unusual. He has not played competitively since November 2024, when he was suspended after an adverse finding for meldonium, but the FA and WADA have now resolved the case and he is free to play again immediately. During his absence he trained privately and worked to keep himself ready, and those around him say he is determined to salvage his career.

His future is still open. Chelsea have already had approaches from Premier League clubs, including one loan option from Coventry City, as well as interest from abroad and from Strasbourg, and the club will use a two-week assessment period before deciding whether to keep him or move him on.

For now, though, the story is simply that Mudryk is back in the conversation. After 20 months on the sidelines, Chelsea will watch closely to see whether the old “Ukrainian Neymar” can look like himself again.