Mudryk Chelsea return will take time – Alonso

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso expressed his happiness at the prospect of welcoming Mykhailo Mudryk back into the squad, yet emphasized that it is premature to gauge the winger's fitness and availability. Mudryk, a 25-year-old Ukrainian player, will rejoin Chelsea for their pre-season tour following the resolution of his doping case with the Football Association (FA).

Following a 2-1 friendly defeat against 10-man Tottenham in Sydney, Alonso confirmed Mudryk's inclusion in the Hong Kong leg of the pre-season schedule, but noted that he has yet to converse with the player. Alonso acknowledged that it would take time for Mudryk to regain his fitness and familiarize himself with the team dynamics, as he had been training independently due to his inability to participate with the club during his suspension.

The manager also highlighted the difficulty Mudryk faced during his prolonged absence from football, expressing his desire for the player to feel welcomed and integrated into the Chelsea family once he returns. Alonso acknowledged that the news of Mudryk's potential return was unexpected, given the club's already strong wing options, including Pedro Neto, Estevao Willian, Jamie Gittens, Geovany Quenda, Cole Palmer, and the newly signed Morgan Rogers.

Roberto de Zerbi, Mudryk's former manager at Brighton, expressed his joy at the player's return, praising Mudryk's skills and emphasizing his good character.