'Last time I spoke to him' - Chelsea boss Maresca gives update on Mudryk's doping charge

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has reiterated the club's ongoing support for Mykhailo Mudryk, following the winger's official charge by the FA for an alleged anti-doping rule violation.

Mudryk tested positive for a banned substance in a routine urine test conducted last November and was provisionally suspended in December 2024.

The Ukrainian international now faces a potential ban of up to four years if found guilty, with reports indicating the prohibited substance was meldonium.

Mudryk, who has not played for Chelsea since November, was seen present during the Blues' Europa Conference League celebrations in Poland last month.

His contract at Stamford Bridge runs until 2031. As per regulations, he is currently unable to train or participate in team activities due to his provisional suspension.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Maresca addressed the challenging situation.

"I spoke with Mischa in Poland when we played the Conference League final. I haven’t spoke with him since then," Maresca stated.

He continued, "I didn’t see the news but they communicated it to me but there is nothing more I can add because I don’t have more information."

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Mudryk's playing future, Maresca confirmed that the club maintains contact and support for the player.

"Last time I spoke to him he was quite good, I didn't see him worried, I didn't speak to him since then so I don't know but for sure we will have contact with him," the Chelsea boss added.

Mudryk has consistently denied any wrongdoing since the initial adverse finding, stating in December that it was "a complete shock" and that he had "never knowingly used any banned substances."

His legal counsel has indicated that his position remains unchanged, and he will not be commenting further at this time due to the confidentiality of the process.

The FA's regulations dictate that a player is provisionally suspended upon a positive test result before a formal charge is issued.

The maximum penalty for a doping violation under FA rules is a four-year ban, particularly if intentional use of a prohibited substance is proven.

However, sanctions can vary widely depending on the specifics of the case, with some past bans ranging from six months to two years, and the possibility of reductions upon appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.