Mykhailo Mudryk returned to the pitch for Chelsea for the first time in 20 months on Wednesday. He stepped onto the field in Hong Kong during a 1-0 pre-season friendly loss to Juventus. The 25-year-old Ukrainian winger recently concluded an anti-doping case with the FA and WADA. He came on in the 82nd minute to a loud response from the 43,000 spectators at Kai Tak Stadium. Chelsea center-back Tosin Adarabioyo called Mudryk a 'freak,' noting he was not surprised Mudryk had maintained his fitness during the 20-month absence. Adarabioyo stated Mudryk 'has been working hard throughout this whole time' and remarked, 'His work rate is unbelievable.'
Mudryk’s brief 8-minute cameo on the left wing showcased his pressing energy and his ability to threaten the defense with a late cross. It marked his return to competitive action after a lengthy absence due to a doping settlement. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso described the moment as emotional for the player and the club. Alonso informed Mudryk before kickoff that he intended to deploy him for the final 10-15 minutes. Nicolas Jackson agreed beforehand to give up his spot to allow Mudryk's entrance, as per football.london. Mudryk's introduction sparked an enthusiastic response from the more than 43,000 fans at Kai Tak Stadium. Given that Mudryk had only recently resumed training with Chelsea, his ability to participate after just a handful of sessions is remarkable.
Juventus secured the match with a 68th-minute goal from Edon Zhegrova, a curling shot that proved decisive. Chelsea, despite creating more scoring chances through Danny Welbeck, Jamie Gittens, and Marco Palestra, failed to find an equalizer. The loss marks the Blues’ second consecutive pre-season defeat. Welbeck, 35, played the opening 45 minutes before being substituted. Adarabioyo expressed excitement about the impact Welbeck will bring, stating, 'We have all seen that he scores goals.'
Alonso confirmed before the game that Mudryk would only play a short role. He estimated 10 to 15 minutes and noted the player’s happiness to be back on the field. 'He was thrilled, for sure,' Alonso said. 'After such a long period, it was a great feeling for him to be back on the pitch. And for everyone as well.' Adarabioyo, affectionately dubbed 'Uncle Tosin' by his Chelsea colleagues, relinquished his status as the squad’s elder statesman with the arrivals of Welbeck and Jordan Henderson, 36. Adarabioyo discussed Henderson's arrival, adding, 'Pure experience and at the same time, they are winners. They will bring that winning mentality to the club.'