Mykhailo Mudryk made his first appearance for Chelsea since November 2024 during a pre-season friendly against Juventus at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong on Wednesday evening. The Ukrainian winger entered the match late in a 1-0 defeat, coming on as a substitute for Nicolas Jackson. This marked Mudryk’s return to action following a prolonged absence linked to anti-doping disciplinary proceedings, for which The Football Association confirmed a resolution last week.

Mudryk’s comeback was met with strong support from the more than 43,000 fans in attendance, reflecting his popularity despite the challenges faced off the pitch. Since his return to training with the Chelsea squad after 20 months away, Mudryk has drawn attention for his maintained fitness levels, with many impressed that he was able to take part in the match after only a few sessions.

Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo, a close teammate of Mudryk, described him as a “freak” in terms of work rate and fitness. Tosin said he had kept in contact with Mudryk throughout the suspension and emphasized the winger’s dedication to staying in shape. “There is no doubt he has been working hard throughout this whole time. I know he has been doing sessions away, I have seen him. I know the guys he has been working with, so it’s good,” Tosin stated. He added that Mudryk appeared happy to be back in the team environment and acknowledged that it would take time for him to regain full rhythm, with the squad ready to support him.

Mudryk has been linked with a potential loan move to Coventry, though no official confirmation has been made regarding his immediate future at Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Tosin himself is adjusting to new dynamics within the Chelsea squad after the arrivals of veteran players Danny Welbeck, 35, and Jordan Henderson, 36, over the summer. Tosin, who had been Chelsea’s oldest player at 28, joked about no longer being the “uncle” figure within the dressing room, crediting Welbeck with taking on that role. Welbeck made his unofficial Chelsea debut during the same Hong Kong fixture, playing the first half before being substituted.

The centre-back expressed optimism about Welbeck’s contribution to the team, highlighting the striker’s proven goal-scoring record. Tosin also praised Henderson for bringing extensive experience and a winning mentality to the club, qualities the Blues hope will bolster their ambitions in the coming season.