Chelsea's forgotten man Mykhailo Mudryk has resurfaced with a striking new appearance, sparking conversation among fans as his extended absence from football continues. The Ukrainian winger, who cost the Blues up to £89 million, has not played for nearly a year while awaiting the outcome of a potential ban for a failed doping test.
A Drastic Image Change
In a rare public photograph shared by Serhii Palkin, the CEO of Mudryk's former club Shakhtar Donetsk, the 24-year-old can be seen sporting a new head of dark brown hair, a stark contrast to his previously recognisable blond locks. The image was taken at a meeting discussing an upcoming film about Shakhtar Donetsk and the war in Ukraine.
Notably, eagle-eyed supporters spotted that Mudryk was still wearing Chelsea-branded tracksuit bottoms in the picture, a detail that fuelled online discussion about his ongoing connection to the club. The meeting also included former Shakhtar manager Igor Jovicevic, the Croatian coach who was in charge when Mudryk was sold to Chelsea and now manages in Poland.
The Ongoing Doping Allegation
Mudryk's football career has been in a state of limbo since he acknowledged a failed doping test in December 2024. At the time, he released a statement expressing his shock, stating, "This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules, and am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened."
His last appearance for Chelsea was in a Conference League victory over Hedenheim in November 2024. His final inclusion in a Premier League matchday squad came just days later on 1 December 2024, when he was an unused substitute against Aston Villa.
An Uncertain Future at Stamford Bridge
While Mudryk's suspension remains unresolved, Chelsea have moved forward without him. The club has bolstered its attacking options with the signings of wingers Estevao, Alejandro Garnacho, and Jamie Gittens. Furthermore, his old number 10 shirt has been reassigned to star player Cole Palmer.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed he had a conversation with Mudryk in Poland during the Conference League final last season but admitted they have not spoken since. "There is nothing I can add. I don't have more information. Mischa is a Chelsea player. Until he is not, I will trust," Maresca said in June.
Despite the long absence and the cloud of uncertainty, the recent sighting confirms Mudryk remains a Chelsea player in name. However, with the club progressing on the pitch without him, his prospects for a first-team return grow increasingly slim as he awaits the final verdict on his playing future.
