Mudryk set to join Chelsea squad in Hong Kong after suspension ends

Mykhailo Mudryk is set to reunite with the Chelsea squad during their pre-season tour in Hong Kong, giving new head coach Xabi Alonso the opportunity to assess the winger ahead of the new campaign.

Chelsea are currently preparing for the upcoming season while Alonso continues to shape his squad, with the Blues experimenting with different combinations and giving opportunities to several young players during their summer schedule.

The club suffered a disappointing result in their latest friendly, as Tottenham Hotspur secured a 2-1 victory over Chelsea in Sydney thanks to a late Richarlison winner.

Despite the setback, Alonso has received a boost with the return of Mudryk, who is now available again after his suspension was brought to an end following an agreement between the Football Association and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Mudryk returns after suspension

Mudryk was provisionally suspended after testing positive for meldonium (Mildronate) in late 2024, with the winger unable to feature in a competitive match since November of that year.

According to reports from Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have called Mudryk back into the pre-season squad, with the Ukrainian travelling to Hong Kong to link up with Alonso’s team.

“Mykhaylo Mudryk, flying today to Hong Kong to join Chelsea squad and make himself available for Xabi Alonso with immediate effect,” Romano reported.

The return of the Ukraine international provides Alonso with another attacking option as he continues to evaluate his squad before the start of the season.

What role can Mudryk play under Alonso?

Chelsea signed Mudryk from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 for a reported £89 million deal, making him one of the club’s most expensive signings.

The winger has shown flashes of his ability since arriving at Stamford Bridge, but consistency and end product have remained key areas for improvement.

His return could offer Alonso an interesting tactical option, especially given Mudryk’s pace and ability to operate in wide attacking positions.

However, after such a long period away from competitive football, Mudryk is expected to initially focus on rebuilding his fitness and match sharpness.

For now, the 24-year-old is likely to be viewed as a squad option, but his return gives him a chance to impress Alonso and potentially play a bigger role during the upcoming Premier League season.