How Mykhailo Mudryk could fit into Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea
Mykhailo Mudryk’s return gives Xabi Alonso another explosive attacking option, but his route into Chelsea’s starting side is not straightforward.
Mudryk has been cleared to resume his career immediately after almost 20 months without a competitive appearance.
Chelsea will initially focus on rebuilding his fitness and reintegrating him into the squad. As covered in ReadChelsea’s report on Mudryk’s return, he is expected to join Alonso’s squad during the tour.
The winger has trained individually throughout his absence. However, private sessions cannot recreate the physical demands or decision-making speed of Premier League football.
New: Mykhailo Mudryk is expected to join his Chelsea team-mates on their pre-season tour, most likely in Hong Kong after this weekend. Mudryk's last appearance for #CFC was away at Heidenheim, Conference League, November 2024. No longer banned
— Kieran Gill (@kierangill_DM) July 31, 2026
Alonso predominantly used a 3-4-2-1 system during his successful spell with Bayer Leverkusen.
The two wing-backs provided most of the width. Meanwhile, Florian Wirtz and Jonas Hofmann operated centrally behind the striker.
A Premier League tactical analysis of Alonso’s Chelsea expects Palmer and Rogers to occupy those inside-forward positions behind João Pedro.
Mudryk has usually looked most comfortable when receiving close to the left touchline. He wants space to accelerate before attacking the defender or running behind the opposition defence.
Chelsea’s own previous analysis of Mudryk’s game highlighted his preference for staying wide and using his pace from the left. It also showed that he can move inside when combinations create space.
Alonso’s usual system would ask Mudryk to spend more time in crowded central areas. He would need to receive under pressure and connect quickly with the striker.
That role requires greater positional discipline than playing as a conventional winger.
Mudryk offers Chelsea a different attacking threat
Palmer and Rogers appear better suited to creating between midfield and defence.
ReadChelsea recently explained how Palmer and Rogers could combine behind Chelsea’s striker. Palmer provides close control, while Rogers can carry possession through central areas.
Mudryk offers something different.
His acceleration can force opponents to defend deeper and create more room for Chelsea’s creators. He can also attack the space behind a high defensive line when João Pedro drops towards the ball.
That could make Mudryk particularly dangerous from the bench. Alonso could introduce him during the final half-hour when defenders are tiring and matches become stretched.
Chelsea have often lacked an attacker capable of changing the speed of a game with one run. Mudryk still possesses that ability.
Alonso could also use a 4-3-3 in selected matches. That shape would provide Mudryk with his natural position on the left and reduce the tactical adjustment required.
Alonso must rebuild Mudryk before defining his future
Mudryk is unlikely to return as an immediate starter.
Alonso must assess his match sharpness and confidence before deciding whether he can compete with Chelsea’s established attackers. His pressing work will also be important in a system built around recovering possession quickly.
A wing-back role appears less suitable. Mudryk has the speed to cover the flank, but the position carries major defensive responsibilities.
He could fill that role when Chelsea are chasing a game, although it should not become his primary position.
His clearest opportunity is as a rotational inside forward who gives Alonso a more direct option. A strong run from the bench could then increase his involvement.
Mudryk’s return does not remove the questions surrounding his Chelsea career. Competition has become considerably stronger during his absence.
However, Alonso now has an attacker with rare speed and something to prove. If Mudryk adapts to the spaces inside Chelsea’s wing-backs, he could become a valuable tactical alternative rather than an expensive outsider.
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