Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk made his long-awaited return to competitive football after serving a 20-month suspension, but his comeback ended in disappointment as Juventus secured a narrow 1-0 victory in a pre-season clash in Hong Kong on Wednesday.
The Ukrainian international came off the bench in the 82nd minute at Kai Tak Stadium, receiving a warm ovation from the crowd of over 43,000 supporters. His appearance marked his first competitive outing in 615 days, following the expiration of his suspension over a positive test for the banned substance meldonium.
Mudryk wasted little time trying to make an impact. Operating from the left flank, the 25-year-old nearly latched onto an overhit through pass from Estevão Willian, pressed aggressively without the ball, and delivered a dangerous left-footed cross late in the game.
Despite his lively cameo, Chelsea were unable to find an equaliser as Juventus held on for a 1-0 win.
Mudryk’s previous competitive appearance came in November 2024, when he scored in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League victory over Heidenheim before his suspension sidelined him for nearly two years.
His return is expected to boost Chelsea’s attacking options as the Blues continue preparations for the new season, with supporters hoping the winger can quickly rediscover the form that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
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