Despite currently serving a suspension, Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk has taken on a surprising new role at Chelsea, stepping in as an unofficial personal trainer to several of his teammates.
Mudryk, who has been sidelined since December 2024 after testing positive for the banned substance meldonium, was formally charged with anti-doping violations on June 18, 2025. The charge, if upheld, could result in a lengthy suspension of up to four years from competitive football.
While the ban prohibits him from participating in official team training sessions and matches, Mudryk has remained actively involved around Chelsea’s training facility at Cobham. According to reports from the Tribune, the 23-year-old has been dedicating his time to supporting teammates with custom fitness routines.
Among the players reportedly benefiting from his assistance are Belgian midfielder Romeo Lavia, Spanish defender Marc Cucurella, and new summer signing Jamie Gittens. Mudryk is said to be guiding them through personalised training plans and helping them improve their physical conditioning while they recover or prepare for the upcoming season.
In addition, rising Brazilian prodigy Estevão Williams is also rumored to be interested in joining the private sessions, impressed by the structure and energy Mudryk brings despite his current situation.
The winger’s initiative has reportedly been well-received by the players involved, who appreciate the extra effort and motivation during off-hours. However, not all reactions have been serious—some fans have taken to social media with tongue-in-cheek remarks, joking that Mudryk is “keeping the supplements to himself” and calling him Chelsea’s new “fitness guru on probation.”
Despite the circumstances surrounding his absence from competitive play, Mudryk’s actions suggest a desire to remain engaged with the squad and maintain both his own fitness and team spirit during a turbulent period in his career.