Chelsea celebrates latest good news ahead of the 2026-27 season kickoff.
"I'm back!" Mykhailo Mudryk expressed great joy at returning to play football after his doping ban was lifted. He thanked Chelsea and the fans for standing by him throughout.
Following the Football Association’s announcement lifting the 4-year ban on Mykhailo Mudryk, the 25-year-old Ukrainian speedster for Chelsea, who was banned for testing positive for a banned substance, is now preparing to join his teammates in Hong Kong for the preseason tour.
Mudryk spoke for the first time, saying, "After a long fight, my 4-year ban has been lifted and I am free to play football immediately. I am grateful this process has ended. I am now allowed to play again and can look forward to my future."
"This has been the toughest period of my career. From the beginning of this case, I have always maintained that I never intentionally or knowingly used any banned substances."
"My commitment to fair competition and representing my club and country with professionalism and honesty has always been important to me. I thank my family and friends for their support and belief throughout this time."
"I sincerely thank everyone at Chelsea, my teammates, and the fans for standing by me. I also appreciate the lawyers and others who tirelessly worked on my case."
"Now, my focus is on returning to football, working hard daily, and performing well on the field. Thank you to everyone who continues to believe in me. I look forward to the next chapter in my career."
Chelsea has issued a full statement supporting Mudryk to ensure he is fully prepared for his return to play.
"The club is pleased that this matter has been resolved, allowing him to play immediately. We have supported Mudryk throughout this process while fully respecting the integrity of the anti-doping system and legal procedures."
Mudryk has not played an official game since November 2024 after testing positive for a low concentration of meldonium two years ago. The FA imposed a 4-year ban for doping violations. Mudryk appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which ultimately lifted the ban.