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Ukrainian international and Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has been formally charged with anti-doping violations by the Football Association (FA), following a provisional suspension issued in December 2024. The charge stems from an “adverse finding” in a routine urine test, which led to Mudryk’s removal from all footballing activities.

The 24-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 in a deal worth up to £89 million, has not played since 28 November 2024. He was also excluded from all matchday squads beginning 1 December and has been barred from training with the team. Despite the suspension, Chelsea have continued to offer Mudryk support, particularly with regard to his mental health.

In a personal statement issued earlier, Mudryk expressed shock at the result, saying he had “never knowingly used any banned substances.” The club echoed this sentiment in a previous statement, affirming their commitment to investigating the circumstances surrounding the failed test.

The FA’s latest announcement confirms Mudryk has been charged under regulations 3 and 4 of its anti-doping policy, alleging the “presence and/or use of a prohibited substance.” As the legal process continues, both the FA and Chelsea have declined to offer further comments.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has voiced his support for the player amid the controversy. “We support Mykhailo and trust means that we believe Mykhailo,” Maresca said publicly.

Under FIFA anti-doping rules, players found guilty of intentionally taking banned substances can face bans of up to four years. Mudryk, like all players in such cases, has the right to request the testing of a B sample. If the B sample confirms the findings of the A sample, the player may choose to accept sanctions or proceed to a formal hearing to contest the charges.

In May 2025, Mudryk was seen attending Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League final in Poland privately, though he was not part of the squad.

Mudryk remains under contract at Chelsea until June 2031 and has made 73 appearances for the club, scoring 10 goals. The outcome of this case could have serious implications for both his career and Chelsea’s plans, as the club continues to navigate the situation carefully.