Mykhailo Mudryk has been provisionally suspended by the FA after testing positive for a banned substance
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Mudryk and Maresca (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
Enzo Maresca, the Chelsea head coach, has shared his views on Mykhailo Mudryk's situation following a positive drugs test and a subsequent suspension from football.
The 23-year-old has missed the last five matches having returned a positive sample, with the club confirming on Tuesday the reason for his absence. Chelsea are in action in the Conference League on Thursday before a trip to face Everton in the Premier League on Sunday.
On social media, Mudryk conveyed his bewilderment over the 'A' sample findings, branding it a "complete shock" and affirming that he had not intentionally consumed any illicit substances, with Ukrainian press alleging the substance in question was meldonium.
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"We trust Misha," Maresca remarked. "When this kind of thing happens you need to support your player in all aspects. Misha is a Chelsea player, it's my duty to be in contact with him. Me, the club, his teammates, we are all there. Trust means we believe Misha."
The forward has faced a provisional suspension amidst these developments, according to the PA news agency, as they process the implications of his failed drug test.
Having joined from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 with much promise, reflected in an £88million price tag, Mudryk has grappled with form, contributing a modest tally in his 53 Premier League outings, netting just five times.
In the current campaign, Maresca has mainly deployed him in cup competitions, utilising him sparingly in the league, often from the bench.
Maresca remains hopeful about Mudryk's prospects at Stamford Bridge, speculating that even a potential long-term ban would not preclude his future with the team: "I think he's going to come back, the only thing is we don't know when. The only doubt we have in this moment but for sure he's going to come back."
Chelsea could go top of the Premier League with a win over the Blues on Sunday. They trail league leaders Liverpool by two points going into the weekend's fixtures having played a game more.