Viktor Vatsko: Mykhailo Mudryk’s Immediate Future Lies Away from Chelsea

Ukrainian football journalist Viktor Vatsko believes that Mykhailo Mudryk is unlikely to continue his career at Chelsea following his potential suspension related to a meldonium doping case.

Mudryk, who hasn’t played since December 2024, is facing a possible four-year ban from football. However, Vatsko says the actual suspension could be significantly shorter.

“Sixteen to eighteen months is the realistic minimum,” said Vatsko. “If that’s the case, then Mudryk can still revive his career. Players have missed that kind of time through injuries and come back. It might not be the top level, but he can still play for a strong club in one of Europe’s leagues.”

But when it comes to Chelsea, Vatsko sees little chance of a future there. “Even before the suspension, things weren't going well for him at Chelsea. And now, it’s clear — even Enzo Maresca has publicly said the club is targeting a new winger. So if we’re talking about playing time, I don’t believe Mudryk’s future lies at Chelsea.”

In the 2024/25 season, Mudryk managed 15 appearances across all competitions, scoring 3 goals and delivering 5 assists - far from the impact expected from the €70M signing from Shakhtar Donetsk.