Mudryk Faces Possible Long-Term Ban After Testing Positive for Banned Substance
Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk is reportedly at risk of receiving a four-year suspension after testing positive for a banned substance during a routine drug test. The Ukrainian international expressed shock and disbelief, saying he has never knowingly used any illegal substances.
Mudryk has been out of action since Chelsea’s Europa Conference League win over Heidenheim in late November, allegedly due to illness. Ukrainian media first reported that he tested positive for meldonium, a banned substance known for enhancing physical recovery and oxygen efficiency. His A-sample tested positive, and the B-sample results are pending.
If the second sample confirms the result, Mudryk—who is currently suspended—could face a multi-year ban, although the duration may be reduced depending on the circumstances.
In a statement on Instagram, Mudryk said:
“This news came as a total shock. I’ve never knowingly used anything banned. I’m cooperating with my team to understand how this could have happened. I believe I’ve done nothing wrong and hope to return to the pitch soon.”
Chelsea FC acknowledged the FA’s findings and released a statement:
“Chelsea FC confirms that the FA contacted us about an adverse result from a routine urine test provided by Mykhailo Mudryk. We and the player fully support anti-doping efforts and are working with the authorities to determine what caused the result. No further comment will be made at this time.”
Meldonium has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned list since 2016.
Mudryk joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 in a deal worth €70 million plus €30 million in add-ons. So far, he has managed 10 goals and 9 assists in 73 matches, falling short of expectations.
