Mykhailo Mudryk recently made his return to football as a late substitute in a friendly match, marking the end of a 20-month ban due to a doping violation. The Chelsea winger, who was suspended after testing positive for the banned substance meldonium, had not played since November 2024. His return comes as clubs have reportedly inquired about his availability, with the understanding that significant patience will be required for him to regain peak form after such a prolonged absence from the game. The situation draws parallels to other high-profile players who have faced similar challenges after lengthy suspensions.
Rio Ferdinand experienced an eight-month ban in 2004 after failing to provide a drugs sample. Upon his return, he described the experience as "physically and mentally... all new again." Ferdinand was immediately thrust back into Manchester United's starting lineup for a match against Liverpool, a game he admitted required an energy bar to get through, as he had been unable to participate in friendlies to prepare. Despite the initial challenges, Manchester United's form improved after his return, and he was recalled to the England squad, becoming a near-constant presence for his club for the remainder of the season.
Eric Cantona's infamous eight-month ban in 1995, following an incident where he kicked a Crystal Palace supporter, also saw an immediate impact upon his return. In his first match back against Liverpool, Cantona scored a penalty and assisted a goal, contributing to a 2-2 draw. Teammates described his return as if he had "never been away," and he became a pivotal figure in Manchester United's subsequent league and FA Cup double-winning season, ultimately earning the Football Writers Association's Player of the Season award.
Adrian Mutu, a significant signing for Chelsea in 2003, received a seven-month ban in September 2004 after testing positive for cocaine. This led to his dismissal by the club. Despite the setback, Mutu was quickly signed by Juventus in January 2005 and managed to rebuild his career, spending several seasons at Fiorentina where he was later inducted into the club's Hall of Fame. However, Mutu also faced a nine-month ban in 2010 for another failed doping test.
Paul Pogba's situation offers a more recent comparison due to the length of his layoff. Initially facing a four-year ban after testing positive for DHEA in September 2023, his suspension was reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Pogba described the period as "going through hell." Signed by Monaco last summer, he viewed the move as a "second chance." However, similar to Mudryk, Pogba struggled with fitness and form, playing only 115 minutes for Monaco last season. The club is reportedly considering his future, with a decision pending on his performance and physical condition.
Diego Maradona also faced a 15-month ban in 1991 for cocaine use, a sanction that effectively ended his tenure with Napoli. After his ban, he joined Sevilla, where he initially made a positive impact, helping the team climb to third place in La Liga and delivering a strong performance against Real Madrid. However, off-the-field issues and a falling out with his coach led to him spending only one season in Spain before returning to Argentina.