Here’s the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-08-01 16:16:00.
SYDNEY — Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso has received unexpected news just weeks before the Premier League season begins: Mykhailo Mudryk is back from a doping ban.
Mudryk has not been eligible to compete since November 2024, when he was provisionally suspended by the Football Association (FA) after an “adverse finding” for a banned substance. He was charged and officially banned in June 2025.
However, the 25-year-old winger, who made a record transfer to Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2023, successfully had his maximum four-year ban overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) last month. Alonso learned of Mudryk’s reinstatement overnight.
Alonso’s Relief About Mudryk’s Return
Following Chelsea’s 2-1 friendly defeat against Tottenham in Sydney, Alonso expressed joy for Mudryk, emphasizing the struggle he endured during his suspension. “We are happy for him, especially for him, because we are not able to understand what he has been through,” Alonso said.
The coach highlighted the importance of integrating Mudryk back into the squad, acknowledging the long time he has been away from competitive football. “We want him to feel part of the team, supported by everyone. To be honest, we did not expect such great news at this moment,” Alonso remarked.
Looking Ahead to the Pre-Season
Mudryk will join Chelsea for the next round of their pre-season friendlies in Hong Kong. Alonso described Mudryk as a “special player,” recalling how impressed he was by the winger during his journey with Shakhtar Donetsk.
However, Alonso also noted that Mudryk’s reintegration process may take time, given the short interval before the start of the Premier League season. “There’s a lot of work to do to align his fitness and mindset with the team’s goals,” he explained.
Alonso reflected on Mudryk’s talent, acknowledging the difficulties he faced training alone for such an extended period. “Once there’s a change, things will start moving. But we need to do the work,” he added.
FAQs
What led to Mykhailo Mudryk’s suspension?
Mykhailo Mudryk was provisionally suspended due to an adverse finding for a banned substance by the FA.
When will Mudryk rejoin the team?
Mudryk will rejoin Chelsea for their next pre-season friendlies in Hong Kong.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-08-01 16:16:00
Read more on the FIFA World Cup 2026 right here as the tournament continues.
Tags: #Xabi #Alonso #Chelsea #happy #surprise #return #Mykhailo #Mudryk
Tags: #Xabi #Alonso #Chelsea #happy #surprise #return #Mykhailo #Mudryk
