Adrian Mutu has opened up about the tragic mistake that cost him the opportunity to become one of the world’s best players – his cocaine use during his time at Chelsea.

The Romanian forward arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2003 with high hopes after an impressive stint at Parma.

However, his promising career quickly unravelled after a drug test in 2004 revealed cocaine use, leading to a seven-month football ban and a fallout with then-manager José Mourinho. Despite receiving initial support from Roman Abramovich, Mutu eventually left Chelsea.

Reflecting on this tumultuous period, Mutu told The Telegraph: “Taking cocaine during my time at Chelsea was the worst decision I could have made in my career. I was alone and sad, but neither depression nor anything else justified my actions.”

Chelsea’s strict zero-tolerance policy on drugs made the situation even more difficult, something Mutu acknowledges: “Zero tolerance — that was Chelsea’s policy regarding drugs. And I think that’s fair.

“I made a mistake, strayed from the path, and paid the price for it. I was caught off guard. I wasn’t used to that life. I was unprepared.”

The star also revealed the personal struggles that contributed to his downfall: “I arrived at Chelsea during a turbulent time in my personal life, and I found myself caught up in too many excuses and lies. I was too young and too alone. I’ve reflected on that many times.”

Mutu is adamant that his potential was immense, and his mistakes robbed him of the chance to achieve greatness: “I believe that for more than a season, I was amongst the best players in the world, so I could’ve won the Ballon d’Or easily. But bad decisions prevented me from doing so. I try not to beat myself up about it.”

Although his time at Chelsea ended in disappointment, Mutu eventually revived his career with Juventus, making a return to football during the final match of the 2004/05 season. However, he always carries the regret of what could have been.