Introduction Mykhailo Mudryk was once considered one of Europe’s brightest youth football talents but has had a tumultuous time since joining Chelsea in January 2023. Though the Ukrainian winger arrived at Stamford Bridge with much anticipation, his time in London has been riddled with inconsistent form and, while showing signs of quality, thus far not living up to his £88.5 million purchase price from Shakhtar Donetsk. Almost three years out, 2024 is looking at the status of Mudryk as his prospects have been on a bit of a fading side with all that wait, Chelsea still has their fingers crossed for him to deliver among increasing competition and transfer buzz.
Youth and beginning at Shakhtar Donetsk
Mudryk was born on 5 January 2001 in Krasnohrad, Ukraine. He started with Shakhtar Donetsk, where his blistering speed, dribbling and technique made him a star in the Ukrainian Premier League. Interest in the midfielder significantly heightened his Champions League displays and ultimately led to a scramble for his signature among European heavyweights.
With a reputation as a dynamic winger capable of terrorising defences with his speed and flair, Mudryk impressed during his time at Shakhtar. With potential in abundance by the time he was 21, he was one of the most sought-after young talents in Ukraine. Being able to use both his left and right foot, he provided an inside forward threat from either wing.
A Pressure Transfer Move For Chelsea
In early 2023, both Arsenal and Chelsea were interested in signing Mudryk, but it would ultimately be the latter that snapped him up for a fee of £88.5 million. The report lifted the spirits of many Chelsea supporters who then saw Mudryk as the future star to replace club legends Eden Hazard and co.
But the 26-year-old struggled in his first year at Chelsea. The Ukrainian winger found it hard to adjust to the physical demands and pace of the Premier League, while his handful of appearances painted no clear picture of what he was capable of. And while he showed his ability in patches, he could not establish himself as a regular starter under both Graham Potter and the man who replaced him, Mauricio Pochettino.
Most of the concerns and criticism at Chelsea
Meanwhile, Mudryk continued to have an up-and-down 2024 season. However, as naturally skilled as he was, his performances were often erratic at best — leading some fans and pundits to question just exactly how good our club record signing could be. His scarcity in the Premier League and regular inclusion in cup line-ups showed his struggle for the first team.
There are a lot of reasons why Mykhailo Mudryk has struggled this season. His style of play — reliant on space and counterattacks — does not necessarily suit Chelsea’s system, which is about possession and intricate build-up. While some blame his lack of confidence, coach Enzo Maresca has even said that Mudryk must work harder and prove more hungry eligibility to succeed within the camp.
Competition for Places
Joining Chelsea has seen Mykhailo Mudryk face a difficult fight for a spot in the attacking lineup. The advances of Joao Felix, Jadon Sancho and Pedro Neto are only hampering his pathway to regular first-team football even more. Chelsea still sees the potential in him, so his time with the Blues will largely depend on how he plays during 24/25.
The summer of 2024 offered Chelsea the chance to cash in on Mudryk, as Bayern Munich followed up on their interest. But the club decided to keep him, showing they hope he can recover yet. There has been an improvement from Mudryk in the Carabao Cup, but he will need to bring that form into the Premier League if he wishes to solidify his place at Stamford Bridge further.
Rumours and Possible Departure
Rumours about Mudryk’s future have heated up in recent weeks. There have been reports he may be on his way to Liverpool as a potential replacement for Mohammed Salah who is likely to leave when his contract expires in 2025. Replacing one of the best players to ever grace the Premier League with Mudryk is a bold call, certainly given how up-and-down he was during his time at Chelsea.
That Liverpool remains interested in Mykhailo Mudryk would seem to suggest his reputation as a player who can kick on remains intact, but it also reveals the dangers of investing so heavily (at least for them) in one risky manoeuvre. Even Chelsea may be open to letting him leave should the right deal present itself, with sources suggesting that they would accept offers of around £50 million.
What Lies Ahead for Mudryk?
Mudryk (October 2024) — This is the do-or-die year for Mudryk. Chelsea are losing patience with the Ukraine winger and his future at the club will depend on whether he can play himself into form. If Mudryk is to fulfil his promise, he needs to add consistency and belief, whether that comes at Stamford Bridge or elsewhere.
It is a cautionary tale for those young players who make the next step to a major European league, particularly if the hype and transfer fee coming with them are big. Unquestionably talented, Mudryk has a long way to go before he is ready to handle the Premier League and live up to the tremendous potential that was displayed during his time at Shakhtar Donetsk.
Conclusion
Former Shakhtar Donetsk starlet Mykhailo Mudryk had a long and controversial road from being an exciting youth prospect in Ukraine to a big signing for Chelsea. His performances in the Premier League have been patchy at best but there still feels like he is something to salvage. Mudryk faces a key season in 2024/25 – and one that could see both Chelsea and his admirers at Liverpool watching him closely. Although whether he dwells in London or transfers elsewhere, Mudryk’s career remains one of the most fascinating narratives in European football at present.