Mykhailo Mudryk Faces Doping Charges; Legal Battle Underway

London, England — Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk is facing serious allegations after being charged with a doping offence by the Football Association. The 24-year-old has been suspended from playing for both Chelsea and the Ukrainian national team following positive results from a urine test taken in December 2024.

Mudryk was provisionally suspended last year when the test revealed traces of the banned substance meldonium. He was formally charged in June, but the ongoing FA investigation has left the timeline for resolution uncertain and the final outcome remains unclear.

The player’s legal defence is handled by Morgan Sports Law, known for representing high-profile athletes like Paul Pogba and Tyson Fury in previous doping cases. Mudryk’s camp insists he did not knowingly ingest any banned substances. In an Instagram statement, he expressed shock at the news and reiterated his commitment to working closely with his legal team to resolve the issue.

Sources claim that Mudryk may have come into contact with meldonium while playing for the Ukraine national team, although the Ukrainian Football Association (UAF) has not denied this and maintains that its staff had no involvement. They stated, “UAF officials cannot comment on this matter, as the UAF is not a part of this case.”

UAF President Andriy Shevchenko, a former Chelsea striker, has not visited Mudryk, who remains mostly isolated in London. He has not been able to train with his teammates, although he continues to work out with a private coach.

The situation has caused significant concern among fans and officials in Ukraine, particularly as the national team risks missing a World Cup bid amid poor performance. Mudryk’s absence has led to frustrations in the country, with Shakhtar Donetsk—his former club—now facing a financial loss of up to €30 million due to his suspension.

Despite the financial implications, Shakhtar executives emphasize their support for Mudryk as a person, not just as a player. “We support him like an ex-player, a human being and a friend,” said sporting director Dario Srna.

Mudryk last played on November 28, 2024, and has been an unused substitute since. If he is found guilty, he could face a ban of up to four years, while a potential appeal could draw the process out further.

As the football community awaits the verdict, Mudryk, a dedicated Orthodox Christian, remains hopeful for a swift resolution and return to the pitch.