Despite the Ukrainian's ongoing doping investigation, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has stated his continued faith in winger Mykhailo Mudryk and reaffirmed the team's goal to increase its alternatives in wide areas.
“‘Mischa’ is a Chelsea player, and as long as he is, I will continue to trust him—just as I do all Chelsea players,” Maresca told reporters during a press conference in Philadelphia, ahead of the Blues’ Club World Cup clash with Flamengo on Friday.
The 23-year-old Mudryk hasn't played for the team since November 28 after the FA temporarily suspended him in December due to a "adverse finding in a routine urine test." Under anti-doping rules, he may now be banned for up to four years.
The winger, who cost €100 million to sign in January 2023 from Shakhtar Donetsk, is not on the team visiting the US. Maresca revealed he has had no contact with Mudryk since their last meeting following Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League final victory over Real Betis in Poland.
“The last time I spoke with Mischa was in Poland, and he seemed in good spirits,” Maresca said. “Since then, we haven’t spoken, but I expect we’ll be in touch over the coming days or weeks.”
Mudryk’s time at Stamford Bridge has been plagued by inconsistency, with just 10 goals in 73 appearances across all competitions. Despite glimpses of promise, the winger has struggled to find sustained form.
Chelsea Targeting New Winger Ahead of Premier League Return
Maresca confirmed Chelsea are in the market for a new wide attacker before the Premier League season begins, regardless of Mudryk’s situation.
“We went almost the whole of last season without Mischa, and tried different solutions—some from the academy, like Tyrique George,” he explained. “But it’s clear this is an area we need to strengthen. Our decision to sign a winger is not directly because of Mischa, but because the position needs improvement.”
Tough Test Looms Against In-Form Flamengo
Chelsea face a stern test against Brazilian side Flamengo in what is expected to be a decisive Group D fixture. Both teams won their opening matches 2-0—Chelsea beating Los Angeles FC in Atlanta, and Flamengo overcoming Esperance.
With temperatures and humidity levels climbing in Philadelphia, Maresca acknowledged that the conditions could play in Flamengo’s favor.
“It won’t be easy given the heat. That’s why we’ll rotate some players,” he said, noting that Enzo Fernández, Malo Gusto, and new signing Liam Delap are all in contention for a starting role. “Brazilian teams are used to this kind of climate, but we’ll give everything to win.”
Flamengo, managed by former Chelsea and Atlético Madrid full-back Filipe Luís, are top of the Brazilian league and come into the match with just one defeat in their last 16 games across all competitions.
“They’re a very strong team, technically gifted, and well-organized,” Maresca said. “Watching them play, you can see their quality and depth. We’ll need to be at our best to get the result we want.”
