Why is Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk suspended? 

Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk has been provisionally suspended after a failed drugs test, that was conducted back in October.

Why is Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk suspended? 

Chelsea star Mykhailo Mudryk has been suspended after a failed drugs test. (via Guardian)

Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk has embroiled himself in controversy, after failing a drugs test. The forward has been provisionally suspended from playing, and might face a lengthy ban in case his B-sample turns out positive. 

Mykhailo Mudryk did not feature in Chelsea’s last five matches, with his last appearance coming against Heidenheim. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca had previously lied about the Ukrainian forward’s absence, citing illness as a reason. However, recent reports revealed that the 23-year-old is serving a suspension for a failed drugs test. His urine A-sample tested positive for an illegal substance. Both the player and the FA are waiting for the results of his B-sample, which would confirm the findings of the first test. 

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The ex-Shakhtar forward has reportedly tested positive for Meldonium, which is a metabolic substance similar to insulin. It helps the body quickly restore energy, allowing a player to take on additional physical stress. Meldonium has been on World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances. In case Mudryk’s B-sample turns out to be positive, he may face a lengthy ban for up to four long years. The forward, in a recent social media statement, claimed that he had used the substance unknowingly. 

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Mykhailo Mudyrk has not been in great form as well since making a move to Chelsea last year. He has scored just 10 goals and provided nine assists in 73 matches. He becomes the second high-profile player after French midfielder Paul Pogba to have tested positive for a banned substance. 

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Enzo Maresca ‘not happy’ with €90 million forward Mykhailo Mudryk 

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca claimed that he is unhappy with struggling forward Mykhailo Mudryk, owing to his poor form. The 23-year-old had made a sensational move to the club for a massive €90 million transfer fee, beating the likes of London rivals Arsenal. 

Enzo Maresca and Mykhailo Mudryk
Enzo Maresca expressed his disappointment with Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk. (via BBC)

The Ukrainian has failed to show his best, and is fighting for a spot under the new Chelsea boss. He is currently serving a provisional suspension for failing a drugs test, adding to his woes. The Italian, ahead of the forward’s suspension, had exclaimed that the coaches were working with him extensively. Maresca added that he was not happy with Mudyrk’s quality, and expected more out of him. 

Because I was not happy. In some moments we can manage some situations better. He was working hard off the ball but on the ball, I expect a bit more quality from Misha [Mudyrk].

Enzo Maresca on Mykhailo Mudryk (H/T GOAL)

It remains to be seen what lies ahead for the 23-year-old winger, who has lost his place to new Blues signing Pedro Neto. A ban for the positive drug test could impact his place in the side, as well as affect his future development.