Mykhailo Mudryk is appealing a four-year doping ban imposed by the Football Association (FA), hoping to return to football before the projected December 2028 eligibility date. The 25-year-old winger has been absent from competitive play since November 2024, following an adverse finding in a routine urine test.
Mudryk faced provisional suspension in December 2024 after testing positive for meldonium while on international duty. The FA charged him in June 2025, resulting in the maximum four-year ban. His appeal was submitted to the Court of Arbitration for Sport on February 25, 2026.
The timeline of events surrounding his case highlights the challenges he faces:
- Provisionally suspended by the FA: December 2024
- Charged by the FA: June 2025
- Appeal submitted: February 25, 2026
Mudryk insists he is innocent, describing his situation as a “complete shock”. He stated, “I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules.” Training with a private coach has kept him focused during this difficult period.
Chelsea FC has not commented on the ongoing case, and the FA remains tight-lipped about details. As Mudryk awaits a decision, he reflects on nearly 18 months away from the pitch—time that has been both challenging and isolating.
As he battles against this ruling, Mudryk holds onto hope for an earlier return to football. If his appeal fails, he would remain sidelined until December 2028—a long wait for a player who joined Chelsea for an initial fee of £88 million from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023.
