Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has tested positive for a banned substance, the club confirmed in a statement on Tuesday.
The “adverse finding,” detected during a routine urine test, has reportedly revealed traces of meldonium, a drug banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
Meldonium, often used to treat heart conditions, can enhance endurance and recovery, making it prohibited for athletes at all times.
Mudryk, 22, denied any intentional wrongdoing, stating: “I have never knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules. I am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.”
The test reportedly took place after the Ukrainian international returned from national team duty in November.
Meldonium, not approved for use in the United States, is prescribed in parts of Eastern Europe.
Chelsea reiterated their support for the player, stating that he has categorically denied knowingly taking any banned substances.
The club has begun cooperating with authorities to determine the circumstances behind the test result.
Mudryk’s case is among high-profile incidents involving meldonium since it was added to WADA’s banned list in 2016.
If found guilty of doping, Mudryk could face a suspension, which would deal a blow to Chelsea amid their Premier League and European campaigns.
The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as both the club and the player await clarity on the situation.
