Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterChelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryks long-running doping case has reached a critical juncture after the player reportedly filed an official appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).The 25-year-old Ukrainian international has been sidelined since November 2024 following a positive test for the prohibited substance meldonium.Mudryk has spent nearly 18 months in professional limbo, with his career effectively on hold while the legal process continues. You may like What Harry Maguire said to be given extra game suspension What Manchester City can expect after Premier League issue their biggest-ever fine Ex-Man City youngster banned from entire league after gambling on own team Mykhailo Mudryk facing four-year banThe situation began in December 2024, when the FA issued a provisional suspension after a routine urine test flagged an 'adverse finding' during his time on international duty.This was followed by an official charge in June 2025 for Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRV), alleging the use of a prohibited substance.FourFourTwo's essential 2026 World Cup pack!Get your hands on the newest issue of FourFourTwo - our ultimate World Cup pack! Featuring: Englands American dream, Jordan Pickford and Morgan Rogers, Scotlands return, Mauricio Pochettino Q&A, biggest upsets plus a huge wallchart and preview special!View DealDespite the ongoing ban, which could last up to four years if the original verdict is upheld, Chelsea have reportedly registered an updated contract for the player this month, revealed in the FA's annual intermediary transactions disclosure.This move has prompted significant speculation regarding the club's long-term intentions for a player who cost an initial �88.5 million.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.In June 2025, ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, Mudryks No. 10 shirt was officially handed to Cole Palmer. Since then, the winger has been pictured training alone at the facilities of non-league side Uxbridge FC to maintain his fitness.Recent reports confirm the case has now been sent to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and while written submissions have been exchanged between the FA and Mudryks legal team, a final hearing date is yet to be scheduled.A spokesperson for the FA previously stated: "As this is an ongoing case, we are not in a position to comment further at this time." What to read next Chelsea slapped with transfer bans and record fine following 'secret payments' �19m Chelsea youngster admits losing identity during Stamford Bridge dark days 'Don't expect Manchester City case to be wrapped up any time soon', former Premier League club director warns If Mudryk fails with his appeal, the maximum sentence remains a four-year ban, which would keep him out of professional football until late 2028.The substance Mudryk is alleged to have tested positive for, meldonium, is a medication banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) since 2016.It has been known to be used in Eastern European countries to treat heart conditions and cannot be prescribed or purchased in the United Kingdom.Clinically speaking, meldonium allows blood to be moved around the body more quickly, increasing the body's ability to carry oxygen to the muscles and organs.Therefore, the obvious athletic benefit is that it can give competitors better stamina, increased endurance, allowing them to benefit from a greater overall performance. Exclusive: The FA have handed Mykhailo Mudryk a four-year ban. Now being appealed in CAS. https://t.co/dvo8sKjK65April 29, 2026TOPICSChelseaPremier LeagueJoe DonnohueSocial Links NavigationSenior Digital WriterJoe joined FourFourTwo as senior digital writer in July 2025 after five years covering Leeds United in the Championship and Premier League. Joe's 'Mastermind' specialist subject is 2000s-era Newcastle United having had a season ticket at St. James' Park for 10 years before relocating to Leeds and later London. Joe takes a keen interest in youth football, covering PL2, U21 Euros, as well as U20 and U17 World Cups in the past, in addition to hosting the industry-leading football recruitment-focused SCOUTED podcast. He is also one of the lucky few to have 'hit top bins' as a contestant on Soccer AM. It wasn't a shin-roller.
