'I've never...’- Mykhalio Mudryk opens up about his failed Doping test

Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has been provisionally suspended from all football activities due to a positive drug test.

The Ukraine international has not played for the Blues since November 28, when he scored in a Europa Conference League victory against Heidenheim. While his recent absence was initially attributed to illness, it has now come to light that he failed a doping test, making him unavailable to head coach Enzo Maresca.

Club's official statement

“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."

Mudryk's response to his provisional ban

“I can confirm that I have been notified that a sample I provided to The FA contained a banned substance." Mudryk said.

“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. 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.” he added.

Mudryk transferred to Chelsea for a significant £89 million in January 2023, securing an eight-year contract. He has made 73 appearances for the club, netting 10 goals. Despite recent developments, he firmly asserts that his routine remains unchanged following a passed banned substance test in August.

Under FA regulations, a player who tests positive can be provisionally suspended, though they are entitled to explain. Mudryk is currently awaiting the results of his ‘B’ sample.