‘Special player’ – Xabi Alonso confirms Mykhailo Mudryk Chelsea return plan
Xabi Alonso has confirmed that Mykhailo Mudryk will rejoin Chelsea during the next stage of their pre-season tour.
Mudryk’s return will begin in Hong Kong after the winger was cleared to play again following almost 20 months away from competitive football.
Speaking after Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Tottenham in Sydney, Alonso welcomed the decision and made clear that Mudryk remains part of his plans.
“We want him to be a part of the team. He has the support of everyone,” Alonso told the Evening Standard.
Mudryk is expected to join the squad in Hong Kong, where Chelsea face Juventus on Wednesday.
However, Alonso suggested supporters may need to be patient before seeing the Ukraine international back on the pitch.
Mudryk has not played competitively since Chelsea’s Conference League victory over Heidenheim in November 2024.
His anti-doping proceedings were resolved on 31 July, allowing him to return to football immediately. ReadChelsea covered the full development when Mudryk was cleared to resume his Chelsea career.
Alonso has already studied the winger’s previous performances and highlighted his ability in one-against-one situations.
“He’s a special player,” the Chelsea manager said.
Mudryk has continued training individually during his absence, but Alonso must now rebuild his match fitness before deciding when he can feature.
The Mykhailo Mudryk Chelsea return also gives Alonso another different attacking option. His pace and direct running could complement Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and João Pedro once he is ready for competitive minutes.
Chelsea face Juventus next before continuing their tour against AC Milan and Johor Darul Ta’zim.
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