Moudrik returns to action after 615 days away

Mikhaïlo Moudrik stepped onto a football pitch once again after more than eighteen months out of action. The Ukrainian winger came on as a substitute in the 82nd minute for Nicolas Jackson in Chelsea's friendly against Juventus, as reported by L'Équipe.

His last competitive appearance dated back to 28 November 2024 against Heidenheim in the Conference League, when he scored. The English Football Association had suspended Moudrik for doping in 2024, but lifted the four-year ban with immediate effect on 31 July. On Wednesday, 5 August, he closed a chapter of 615 days away from competition.

In the pre-season fixture, the Turin side won through an Edon Zhegrova goal. The 25-year-old did not score on his return, but is now available to continue building his match fitness. For now, manager Xabi Alonso stated that "no decision has been made" regarding his future at the London club or elsewhere.