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Chelsea confirm that Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk failed drugs test
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The Ukraine international protests innocence on social media
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Mudryk could face an extended period on the sidelines
Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk has confirmed failing a drugs test but maintains his innocence, expressing shock at the findings.
Mudryk, who has struggled for consistent Premier League starts but impressed in the Europa Conference League with eight goal contributions in 15 matches, has missed Chelsea’s last four games due to illness. However, his absence might extend further following accusations of testing positive for mildronate—a substance banned by WADA since 2016.
Mudryk’s Response
In a statement on social media, Mudryk acknowledged the situation: “I can confirm that I have been notified that a sample I provided to The FA contained a banned substance.
This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules. I am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.
I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon. I cannot say any more now due to the confidentiality of the process, but I will as soon as I can.
The positive test stems from a sample taken in late October. A test on his ‘B’ sample will determine the final outcome.
Chelsea’s Statement
The club confirmed the FA’s notification, emphasizing their support for Mudryk and anti-doping regulations:
“Chelsea Football Club can confirm the Football Association recently contacted our player Mykhailo Mudryk concerning an adverse finding in a routine urine test.
Both the Club and Mykhailo fully support The FA’s testing programme and all our players, including Mykhailo, are regularly tested. Mykhailo has confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances.
Both Mykhailo and the Club will now work with the relevant authorities to establish what has caused the adverse finding.
The Club will not be commenting any further.”
This case will now proceed with the authorities, while Mudryk and Chelsea await the results of the secondary sample analysis.