Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has addressed the Mykhailo Mudryk doping situation, as Cole Palmer went ahead to defend himself from critics.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca confirmed he has not spoken to Mykhailo Mudryk since the forward was charged with violating the Football Association's anti-doping rules.
However, Enzo Maresca emphasised the club's continued support for the player. The 24-year-old Ukrainian international was provisionally suspended in December following an 'adverse finding in a routine urine test' and could face a four-year ban.
Mykhailo Mudryk, who expressed shock at the time and denied knowingly using banned substances, last played for Chelsea in November but attended their Conference League final victory as a spectator.
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Enzo Maresca Breaks Silence on Mykhailo Mudryk
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"Mischa is a Chelsea player, and I trust all Chelsea players. I spoke with him at the final in Poland, but not since. He seemed fine then, not worried, but I don't know how he's doing now," Enzo Maresca revealed.
Mykhailo Mudryk joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023 for a fee potentially reaching £89m and is contracted until June 2031. He has scored 10 goals in 73 appearances for the Blues but is currently unable to train with the team.
Cole Palmer Shirt Number
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New signing Cole Palmer has taken over Mykhailo Mudryk's number 10 shirt, debuting it in Chelsea's 2-0 win against Los Angeles FC.
Cole Palmer explained his choice, saying, "I've worn number 10 all my life. It's iconic, reminding me of Messi and Rooney." He added that he hadn't yet spoken to Mudryk but would "when the time is right."
Cole Palmer also revealed a past attempt to contact former Chelsea number 10, Eden Hazard, while in Manchester City's academy. Although Eden Hazard has not replied to the message, they have met since, with Hazard even requesting one of Palmer's shirts for his sons.
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Looking ahead, Maresca plans to rotate "three, four, or five players in every game." He also expects winger Noni Madueke to stay at Chelsea despite rumors linking him to Arsenal.