Chelsea has announced that Mykhailo Mudryk tested positive for a banned substance following an ‘adverse finding,’ but the player insists he did not use any prohibited drugs.

In a shocking turn of events, Chelsea FC has confirmed that Mykhailo Mudryk has failed a drugs test following an “adverse finding” in a routine urine sample. The club received notification from the Football Association regarding the test results, which have sent ripples through the football community.

In an official statement, Chelsea expressed their commitment to the FA’s testing programme, stating, “Both the Club and Mykhailo fully support The FA’s testing programme and all our players, including Mykhailo, are regularly tested.” The club further emphasized that Mudryk has categorically denied any knowledge of using banned substances.

The statement continued, “Both Mykhailo and the Club will now work with the relevant authorities to establish what has caused the adverse finding. The Club will not be commenting any further.” This leaves many questions unanswered as the investigation unfolds.

Mudryk himself took to Instagram to express his shock at the situation. “This has come as a complete shock as I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules,” he wrote. “I am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened. I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon.” He added that due to the confidentiality of the process, he could not provide further details at this time.

The 23-year-old winger has not featured for Chelsea since November 28, although he was included in the squad for Sunday’s victory over Aston Villa. His absence from the pitch was attributed to illness by head coach Enzo Maresca, but this latest development raises further concerns about his future.

Failing a drugs test can result in a ban of up to four years, a significant setback for Mudryk, who has struggled to make a lasting impression since his high-profile move to the Premier League. The Ukrainian international joined Chelsea for a hefty £89 million in January 2023, having been courted by rivals Arsenal, but has yet to secure a regular spot in the starting XI.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on both Mudryk and Chelsea as they navigate this challenging period. The implications of this adverse finding could have far-reaching consequences for the player’s career and the club’s ambitions moving forward.