
Mykhailo Mudryk returns for Chelsea after 20-month suspension in 1-0 loss to Juventus
Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk made his first appearance for the club in 20 months as a substitute in their 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong. The Ukraine international entered the match in the 82nd minute at Kai Tak Stadium, receiving a warm reception from the 43,000 fans. This return came five days after his suspension for testing positive for meldonium ended. Mudryk, 25, showed attacking intent, almost connecting with a through-ball and pressing opponents while on the left wing. He also delivered a late cross, marking his return 615 days after his last appearance, when he scored in Chelsea’s Conference League victory over Heidenheim in November 2024. Fans welcomed Mudryk, who joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023, with messages on stadium screens and shirts bearing his name. His comeback followed training sessions that convinced new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso of his readiness. Chelsea suffered their second consecutive defeat under Alonso, with Edon Zhegrova scoring the winning goal for Juventus in the 68th minute. Chelsea created several opportunities but failed to score. Nicolas Jackson also returned to action after a loan spell, making his first Chelsea appearance in over a year before being replaced by Mudryk.



