Is Chelsea's Mykhailo Mudryk Facing a Lengthy Ban for Doping?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mykhailo Mudryk charged with doping offence.
- Potential ban could last up to four years.
- Provisional suspension began in November 2024.
- Substance found: Meldonium.
- Joined Chelsea for 89 Million Pounds.
New Delhi, June 18 (NationPress) Chelsea's forward Mykhailo Mudryk has been officially charged by the Football Association (FA) for a doping violation, potentially leading to a suspension of up to four years.
Mudryk was provisionally suspended in November 2024 after he failed a doping test. The Football Association notified Chelsea regarding an 'adverse finding' from a routine urine analysis. The substance detected in his 'A' sample was identified as Meldonium, a performance-enhancing agent that has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s prohibited list since January 1, 2016.
"We can confirm that Mykhailo Mudryk has been charged with violations of the Anti-Doping Rules, alleging the presence and/or use of a banned substance, as per Regulations 3 and 4 of The FA’s Anti-Doping Regulations. As this case is still under investigation, we are unable to provide further comments at this time," stated a spokesperson from the FA to Telegraph Sport.
Mudryk joined Chelsea in a deal worth up to 89 Million Pounds, outmaneuvering London rivals Arsenal for his signature in January 2023. The Ukrainian international signed an eight-and-a-half-year contract, running until June 2031. Since his arrival, Mudryk's performance has not met expectations, with only 10 goals and nine assists to show from 73 appearances.
Upon his provisional suspension, Mudryk expressed his disbelief at the allegations, stating he was 'shocked' to receive the news.
“This news has taken me completely by surprise, as I have never knowingly used any prohibited substances or violated any regulations. I am collaborating closely with my team to uncover how this could have occurred,” Mudryk said in his statement.
“I am confident that I have not done anything wrong and remain optimistic about returning to the pitch soon. I cannot provide further comments due to the confidentiality of the process, but will do so when I can,” he added.