Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has officially been charged by the English FA for anti-doping offences, marking a significant development in a case that could have long-term implications for both the player and the club.

Mudryk, who was provisionally suspended after a positive ‘A’ sample for meldonium last year, now faces the possibility of a lengthy ban – up to four years under FA rules. The FA confirmed the charge on Tuesday, bringing clarity to a situation that had been hanging in the balance for months.
“We can confirm that Mykhailo Mudryk has been charged with Anti-Doping Rule Violations alleging the presence and/or use of a prohibited substance, in terms of Regulations 3 and 4 of The FA’s Anti-Doping Regulations,” said an FA spokesperson.

“As this is an ongoing case, we are not in a position to comment further at this time.”

The Ukrainian winger, who joined Chelsea in January 2023, has denied knowingly breaking any rules and insists he has not altered his lifestyle or training methods. It is understood that Mudryk returned a negative doping test in August and has continued to maintain that he has done nothing wrong.

Mudryk has retained Morgan Sports Law to represent him – the same firm that successfully reduced Paul Pogba’s four-year ban to 18 months through an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Chelsea are also providing full support to their player during this difficult period.

The Pogba case has offered a glimmer of hope. The French international, who tested positive for testosterone, had his suspension reduced, and is now seeking a return to professional football after serving an 18-month ban. His case may serve as a precedent or inspiration for Mudryk’s legal team.

For Chelsea, the timing of this charge is disruptive, especially as the club prepares for the new season under Enzo Maresca. The winger was expected to play a key role after showing flashes of improvement at the start of last season.
As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on how Mudryk and his legal team respond to the FA’s charge. For now, Chelsea fans and the football world await the outcome of what could be one of the most significant anti-doping cases involving a Premier League player in recent history.