Mykhailo Mudryk’s recent statement, the wider context of his situation at Chelsea, and the pledge that he “can’t wait to see you soon.” I’ve grounded the piece in the latest reporting and included background on his suspension and fan reactions for context:

Mykhailo Mudryk breaks silence as Chelsea player makes promise and says ‘can’t wait to see you soon’

Mykhailo Mudryk, the talented Ukrainian winger whose career at Chelsea has been thrown into turmoil, has finally broken his silence after a prolonged absence from the pitch and sent an emotional message to supporters promising that he “can’t wait to see you soon.” The 24-year-old’s New Year message has sparked fresh discussion among fans and pundits alike about the future of one of the Premier League’s most enigmatic figures. (Football.co.uk)

Mudryk, who has not played a competitive match for Chelsea since late 2024, used his Instagram account to reach out to supporters in the early hours of 2026.

In his message, he thanked fans for their ongoing backing, acknowledged the difficult period he has endured, and urged them not to give up on him as he continues to fight for his footballing future.

“Happy New Year to all my fans,” Mudryk wrote. “I just wanted to say thank you for your support.

I see all your messages and truly appreciate them, so please don’t give up on me, as I [won’t] give up on myself. Can’t wait to see you soon.” (Football Transfers)

This is the first time Mudryk has publicly addressed his situation in more than a year, and the message carries both hope and a poignant plea for understanding from a player whose career has become overshadowed by controversy.

What happened to Mudryk?

To understand the significance of Mudryk’s message, it’s important to revisit how he ended up sidelined.

Mudryk’s troubles began in December 2024 when Chelsea confirmed that the Football Association (FA) had contacted the club about an adverse finding in a routine urine test provided by the winger.

The test allegedly detected a banned substance, and Mudryk was provisionally suspended while the matter was investigated. (Sky Sports)

The club issued a statement at the time affirming that both they and the player fully supported the testing program, and that Mudryk had “categorically… never knowingly used any banned substances.” Chelsea also pledged to work with authorities to determine what caused the positive result. (SI)

The initial reaction from the player echoed that sentiment: Mudryk described the result as a “complete shock” and maintained his innocence, insisting he had never knowingly taken anything prohibited.

“I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon,” he stated in December 2024. (abc.net.au)

The result of the B sample the second and confirming test that would determine whether the first result stands has been subject to prolonged delay and confidentiality.

While some reports indicate the FA officially charged Mudryk under anti-doping regulations in mid-2025, the case’s outcome remains unresolved publicly, leaving fans and observers frustrated by the lack of clarity. (Sky Sports)

A long absence and a fight to clear his name

Since the adverse result, Mudryk has not featured in any Chelsea matchday squads and has trained individually away from the first-team group. Chelsea’s coaching staff and manager have publicly backed the player throughout the process, emphasizing their belief in his character and their support during this difficult time. (SI)

The winger’s absence has inevitably fueled speculation.

Some pundits and supporters argue that the lengthy delay in the investigation and the ongoing uncertainty around his future has been deeply damaging to both Mudryk and Chelsea’s campaign, particularly given his potential as a high-impact player.

Others have urged patience, pointing out that anti-doping cases can be slow and complex, especially when legal appeals and confidentiality are involved.

Meanwhile, social media forums have been awash with mixed opinions  from staunch backing for Mudryk to scepticism over how his situation has been handled. (Reddit)

The emotional impact of his message

Mudryk’s decision to post a personal New Year message embracing both gratitude and hope  adds an emotional layer to an already complicated story.

For a player who joined Chelsea with high expectations after his big-money move from Shakhtar Donetsk, the last year has been a test of resilience and mental strength. (Kyiv Post)

In telling fans not to give up on him, Mudryk acknowledged a shared journey with supporters who have stuck by him through thick and thin.

The phrase “can’t wait to see you soon” was not just about a potential return to action; it sounded like a heartfelt promise of reconnection  with the pitch, with Chelsea fans, and with a future he desperately wants to reclaim. (Football Transfers)

Whether that return will materialize in the immediate future remains unclear.

The legal and regulatory processes around the doping charge are ongoing, and until the FA’s final verdict is publicly announced, Mudryk’s competitive status is in limbo.

Yet there is undeniable power in his words.

In reaching out directly and thanking supporters for their belief, he has reminded the footballing world that beyond transfer fees and headlines, there is a young man fighting not just for his career, but for his reputation.

What next for Mudryk and Chelsea?

As the January transfer window unfolds, speculation over Mudryk’s future will only intensify.

Clubs may be wary of engaging with a player whose eligibility remains uncertain, while Chelsea must balance squad needs with supporting a long-term contract player through a legal storm.

But if there’s one takeaway from Mudryk’s message, it’s that he hasn’t given up and he wants to be there to show it.

Whether that comes to fruition in the coming months or further down the line is still to be seen.

For now, his fans can hold on to one thing: his belief that he will one day step out onto the Stamford Bridge turf again  and that he “can’t wait to see you soon.” (Football Transfers)