+18 | Play Responsibly | T&C's Apply | Commercial Content | Publishing Principles
Wolverhampton Wanderers FC v Chelsea FC - Premier LeagueGetty Images Sport

'I expect more' - Enzo Maresca 'not happy' with Mykhailo Mudryk as Chelsea boss explains why he hooked struggling £89m winger at half-time in victory at Wolves

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Mudryk had shocking 45-minute display
  • Maresca took him off at half-time
  • Boss demands more from Ukrainian winger
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    After a disastrous first-half performance, Mudryk did not emerge for the second half as new signing Pedro Neto took his place. Maresca's decision paid off as Chelsea went on to win 6-2, with Noni Madueke scoring a hat-trick and Joao Felix getting a goal on his first game since returning to the club on a permanent basis.

  • Advertisement
  • Wolverhampton Wanderers FC v Chelsea FC - Premier LeagueGetty Images Sport

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Mudryk, an £89 million ($109m) signing from Shakhtar in January 2023, managed just 13 touches, completed five of his eight passes, and failed to have a shot or create a chance in his 45-minute display. It is the second terrible display in a row from the 23-year-old as he struggled in the Conference League qualifying match against Servette on Thursday, and Maresca's patience may be wearing thin after Sunday's game.

  • WHAT MARESCA SAID

    "Because I was not happy," Maresca said at a press conference when asked why the Ukrainian was hooked at the break. "In some moments we can manage some situations better. He was working hard off the ball but on the ball, I expect a bit more quality from Misha. He had some good moments today but the reason why was to change it and give Pedro some minutes."

  • Chelsea v Servette FC -UEFA Europa Conference League Play-Off 1st LegGetty Images Sport

    WHAT NEXT FOR MUDRYK?

    Mudryk, whose contract at Chelsea runs until 2031, will hope to be given a chance to make up for his woeful performance when the Blues meet Servette for the second leg of their qualifying tie on Thursday.