Mykhailo Mudryk, the 25-year-old Chelsea winger, is now available to play after a doping ban was resolved by the World Anti-Doping Agency and the Football Association.
Mudryk has not represented Chelsea since November 2024 due to a suspension for an adverse finding in a urine sample. The sample produced an adverse finding for the prohibited substance meldonium, which can increase respiratory capacity and stamina.
The Ukrainian international said the failed drugs test came as a 'complete shock' and that he had never knowingly used a banned substance. He was initially dealt a four-year ban for the offence but subsequently appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas).
Cas has now ruled that Mudryk can return to competition 'with immediate effect' after he accepted breaking anti-doping rules and agreed to a suspension equal to the time already served.
The FA changes to Wada's scientific guidance have meant that if Mudryk's sample was taken today, he would not have committed an anti-doping violation. An agreement has now been reached between the FA, Wada and Mudryk to resolve the case.
Mudryk is expected to join Xabi Alonso's team on their pre-season tour, having last played for Chelsea in November 2024. In a statement confirming the news, Mudryk said: 'After a long battle, the four-year ban that was imposed on me has been rescinded and I am free to resume my career with immediate effect.'
Mudryk expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and the Chelsea team for their support throughout the process. He also thanked his legal team for their tireless work on his case, stating that his focus now is on returning to football and making a positive contribution on the pitch.
Chelsea FC has welcomed the conclusion of the matter, stating that they are pleased that Mudryk can return to football with immediate effect. The club has also acknowledged that advances in scientific reporting standards mean that Mudryk's sample would not have resulted in a positive test if it were analysed today.
Mudryk remains under contract with Chelsea until 2031 and has scored 10 goals in 73 appearances for the Blues.
