Chelsea Manager Maresca Trusts Mudryk Despite FA Doping Charge

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has expressed continued trust in winger Mykhailo Mudryk despite the Ukrainian player being charged by England's Football Association with violating anti-doping rules and facing a potential four-year suspension. Mudryk has been provisionally suspended since December following a positive test for the banned substance meldonium and has not played for Chelsea since November 28. Maresca revealed he has not spoken with Mudryk since the UEFA Conference League final in Poland but plans to contact him soon. Despite Mudryk's absence and ongoing uncertainty, Chelsea are actively looking to strengthen their wide attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season, a decision Maresca clarified is independent of Mudryk's situation. Mudryk, signed from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 for around €100 million, has had inconsistent performances and scored 10 goals in 73 appearances for Chelsea. The club continues to support Mudryk as he deals with the charges and suspension.