Chelsea’s new head coach Xabi Alonso has welcomed the return of midfielder Mykhailo Mudryk, who is now clear to resume playing following the resolution of his doping appeal. The Ukrainian player, 25, has not featured in competitive matches since November 2024 after receiving a four-year suspension due to a positive test for meldonium, a banned substance.

Mudryk was provisionally suspended in December 2024, with the Football Association formally charging him with anti-doping violations in June 2025. He subsequently appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in February 2026. Earlier this week, the FA and the World Anti-Doping Agency resolved the case, allowing Mudryk to return to action.

Alonso said the club hadn’t anticipated such news at this stage and expressed happiness for the player. He acknowledged the challenges Mudryk faced during the suspension period, highlighting the mental and physical toll of training alone, while being barred from playing or participating in team activities. "We probably are not able to understand what he has been through in this time and how he feels at the moment with the things that he had to cope with," Alonso said.

Mudryk is preparing to join Chelsea’s squad for their upcoming pre-season friendly in Hong Kong against Juventus on Wednesday. This follows Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Tottenham in Sydney. Alonso emphasized that it remains too early to assess Mudryk’s readiness in terms of fitness and match sharpness, stating that the player will need time to regain full form.

The midfielder’s return marks a significant development for Chelsea, who have been without one of their key attacking players for nearly two seasons. Alonso’s cautious approach reflects the understanding that reintegration after such a long absence requires careful management.

As Mudryk resumes training with the team, Chelsea will monitor his condition closely in the lead-up to the new season, balancing expectations with the need for gradual progression.