Mykhaylo Mudryk - suspension

Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk (24) is at risk of serving a suspension after testing positive for meldonium, a banned performance-enhancing substance. The news was first revealed by Matt Lawton of The Times on 17 December 2024.

Mudryk has denied any wrongdoing and is currently awaiting the results of a B-sample test. This second test will confirm whether the initial result was accurate or if it was potentially contaminated. Meldonium, a substance used to improve blood flow and endurance, has previously led to one- to two-year bans for other athletes.

If the B-sample also returns positive, Mudryk could face a lengthy suspension, keeping him out of action for an extended period. The winger has maintained his innocence, claiming he did not knowingly take any banned substances.

Update 23 April 2025

In response to the allegations, Mudryk underwent an independent polygraph test in London, which he reportedly passed with responses significantly exceeding average trust norms, suggesting honesty in his denial of knowingly ingesting the substance.

Despite the polygraph results, anti-doping regulations maintain that unintentional ingestion is not a valid defense, and Mudryk could face a four-year ban if the 'B' sample confirms the initial findings . The outcome of this case also has financial implications for his former club, Shakhtar Donetsk, which stands to lose €30 million in performance-related add-ons if Mudryk does not play for Chelsea again .​

As of now, the results of the 'B' sample are pending, and both Mudryk and Chelsea are cooperating with the relevant authorities to resolve the matter.​ (Source: talkSPORT)