Ukrainian midfielder Mykhailo Mudryk returned to the football pitch for Chelsea in a friendly match against Juventus, marking his first appearance in approximately two years after a 600-day suspension. Mudryk was introduced in the 80th minute of the match, which Chelsea lost 0-1.
The 25-year-old had been training in isolation while suspended following a failed drugs test. He maintained his fitness through various means, including hiring pitches, sprint sessions at a running track, and daily work with a personal trainer. Chelsea and Mudryk have maintained that he has no knowledge of how the banned substance, meldonium, entered his system, with the incident believed to have occurred during his time with the Ukraine national team in September 2024.
Mudryk's return was facilitated by a change in how the World Anti-Doping Agency measures meldonium. A resolution was reached with the FA, as a current test of the same sample would not have resulted in a positive finding. During his brief appearance against Juventus, Mudryk showed glimpses of his speed, reaching a ball that appeared to be heading out for a goal-kick. His first touch was met with cheers from the crowd, though it resulted in a loss of possession.
Chelsea have also reportedly agreed to terms for the signing of left back Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano for approximately £16.3 million plus add-ons. Chavarria, 28, can also play as a wing back and is expected to finalize his transfer soon. The club's other defensive signing, right back Marco Palestra from Atalanta, is already making an impression with his pace.
In goal, Chelsea appears set to proceed with Robert Sanchez and Mike Penders for the upcoming season, with insiders denying inquiries for Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Sanchez played the first half, while Penders conceded a goal in the second half from an Edon Zhegrova strike.
Youngster Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, a 16-year-old England Under-17 international, also featured in midfield alongside Moises Caicedo. The match was played on a poor surface, which manager Xabi Alonso suggested hindered his team's efforts to implement their style of play.
Danny Welbeck started as striker before being replaced by Nicolas Jackson at halftime. Jackson himself was later substituted when Mudryk was introduced. Chelsea has placed a valuation of £65 million on Jackson, whose future at the club is uncertain. The club named 21 substitutes for the friendly, with Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill being held out due to minor issues.