Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk is at risk of a four-year ban after being charged by the Football Association (FA) for breaching anti-doping regulations. The 24-year-old Ukrainian international was provisionally suspended in December following an "adverse finding" in a routine urine test.
Under FIFA guidelines, players found to have intentionally used prohibited substances can face bans of up to four years. Mudryk, who joined Chelsea in a deal worth up to £89 million in January 2023, has denied knowingly taking any banned substances, stating he was in "complete shock" over the findings.
The winger has not featured for Chelsea since November 28 and has been excluded from matchday squads since December 1. He is also prohibited from training with the team, though the club has expressed support for his mental well-being during this challenging period. Mudryk attended Chelsea's UEFA Conference League final victory in Poland last month in a private capacity, separate from the squad.
In its statement, the FA confirmed the charges, citing violations of regulations 3 and 4 of its anti-doping rules. The governing body refrained from further comment, citing the ongoing nature of the case. Chelsea has not issued a recent statement but previously emphasized their commitment to investigating the cause of the failed test, with Mudryk firmly denying any intentional wrongdoing.
Manager Enzo Maresca has also voiced his support for the player, stating, "We support Mykhailo and trust means that we believe Mykhailo."
Under FA protocols, Mudryk has the option to request an analysis of the B sample from his urine test. If the B sample confirms the initial adverse finding, charges will proceed. Mudryk can either accept the consequences or request a hearing to contest the allegations.
Mudryk, who has scored 10 goals in 73 appearances for Chelsea, remains under contract with the club until June 2031. His future in football now hangs in the balance as the case unfolds.
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