Chelsea outcast Mykhailo Mudryk trains at non-league club as £89m star's provisional doping ban continues

Mudryk has not featured in a competitive match for the Blues since a Europa Conference League fixture in November 2024. His nightmare began in December that year when he returned a positive test for meldonium, a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Following a formal charge by the Football Association in June 2025, the Ukrainian has been ineligible for selection. He has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the process, though the legal proceedings have offered very little clarity on when a final verdict will be reached regarding his long-term eligibility.

Confirming the charge to his followers via social media last year, Mudryk expressed his disbelief at the situation. He stated: "I can confirm that I have been notified that a sample I provided to The FA contained a banned substance. 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. I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon. I cannot say any more now due to the confidentiality of the process, but I will as soon as I can."

While the £89m man has largely stayed out of the spotlight during his provisional suspension, he has made sporadic attempts to reconnect with a fanbase that has seen little of him on the pitch. He was present for the club’s Conference League trophy celebrations last summer, despite his inability to play. On New Year’s Day, he took to Instagram to issue a heartfelt message of thanks to those who have supported him through his most difficult period in English football.

In a message to his supporters, Mudryk wrote: "Happy New year to all my fans. I just wanted to say thank you for your support. I see all your messages and truly appreciate them, so please don't give up on me as I do not give up on myself. Can't wait to see you soon." Whether his training sessions at Uxbridge signal a move towards a resolution remains to be seen, but for now, the former Shakhtar Donetsk star remains the most expensive spectator in the Premier League as he awaits his fate.

The Blues have undergone numerous changes in personnel and tactical direction since Mudryk last played, and it remains to be seen where he would fit into the squad hierarchy should his ban be lifted. For now, the focus remains on the legal battle being fought in the background by his legal team. Until the FA delivers its final verdict, Mudryk will likely continue his solitary training sessions, hoping for a resolution that potentially allows him to resume his career in the Premier League once more.