Three years after Chelsea hijacked Arsenal’s pursuit of Mykhailo Mudryk, the Ukrainian winger’s career hangs in the balance. He signed for £61m ($82m) on January 15, 2023 as per Chelsea squad update. This news came recently before the Chelsea vs Arsenal semi-final in Carabao Cup.
The Arsenal Snub and Chelsea Arrival
In late 2022, Mykhailo Mudryk flirted with Arsenal on social media, but Chelsea’s aggressive bid—potentially rising to £89m ($109m)—sealed the deal. Arsenal refused to match the structure, a decision now hailed as fortunate. Mudryk arrived amid Chelsea’s chaotic 2022-23 season, finishing 12th in the Premier League under three coaches. He struggled to adapt, logging minimal minutes and failing to replicate his Shakhtar Donetsk form.
Struggles and Stagnation
Under Mauricio Pochettino and Enzo Maresca, Mudryk’s inconsistency persisted. Across 70+ appearances, he scored just 10 goals and 11 assists. His last game was in November 2024 against Heidenheim in the Conference League. Chelsea has since reassigned his No. 10 shirt to Cole Palmer. Moreover, they signed replacements like Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho, signaling a shift away from the 25-year-old.
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 Mykhailo Mudryk has PASSED a voluntary lie detector test to prove he never took a banned substance knowingly. 🇺🇦🗂️
(Source: @MailSport) pic.twitter.com/2RFkK0fdMa
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) November 28, 2025
The Doping Scandal
In November 2024, Mudryk tested positive for meldonium during Ukraine duty, leading to a provisional FA suspension in December. Charged in June 2025, he faces a potential four-year ban, though reductions (like Paul Pogba’s 18 months) are possible if unintentional. Mudryk claims contamination, passing a lie detector test, and pleads innocence: “I have never knowingly used any banned substances.” He’s barred from club facilities, training privately.
🚨🔵 EXCL: Mykhailo Mudryk is set to return during the 26/27 season. #CFC plan for Mudryk to join 🇫🇷 Strasbourg to regain fitness and build minutes after time out.
Exact timeline unclear whether it’s the start of this summer or next January. #CFC pic.twitter.com/UtN48dRgDe
— 🥷 (@secretsourc) January 14, 2026
Uncertain Future
With the investigation ongoing, Mudryk’s return is speculative. A backdated ban could see him eligible by June 2026. However, the squad update is that Chelsea may terminate his contract. Three years post-snub, Arsenal dodged a bullet, while Mudryk fights for redemption.
In a twist of fate, this saga underscores football’s unpredictability. Mudryk’s talent is undeniable, but without clearance, his Chelsea chapter may close prematurely.
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