Mykhailo Mudryk returned to action for Chelsea in a 1-0 friendly defeat against Juventus in Hong Kong. The match marked his first appearance for the club in nearly two years, following a provisional suspension related to a doping ban. Xabi Alonso, Chelsea’s coach, expressed his satisfaction with Mudryk’s return.
Mudryk entered the game as a substitute for Nicolas Jackson in the 82nd minute, receiving a positive reception from both teammates and the 43,575 fans at Kai Tak Sports Park. The Ukraine international had not participated in a competitive match since November 2024, after an adverse finding for meldonium. He was subsequently cleared to return to play after resolving the case with the Football Association.
Despite a lively performance on the left wing, Mudryk could not prevent Juventus from securing a victory. The decisive goal came from Kosovo international Edon Zhegrova, who scored in the second half. Alonso noted that the game was part of a process to get minutes for all players, despite the loss.
Alonso commented on Mudryk’s return, describing it as “emotional” for everyone at the club. He added that Mudryk was “thrilled” to be back on the pitch after such a long absence. The first half of the match saw both teams struggle to create significant opportunities, with Danny Welbeck missing a chance on his first appearance for Chelsea.
In the second half, Moisés Caicedo provided a long ball to new signing Marco Palestra, whose shot was saved by Mattia Perin. Juventus broke the deadlock in the 68th minute when Kenan Yildiz set up Zhegrova, who scored from outside the box. Alonso mentioned that the team started well, controlling the game for the first 30 to 35 minutes and creating some chances. However, numerous substitutions in the second half affected the game’s control.
Milan and Inter Draw in Perth Derby
In other friendly action, Milan and Inter played to a draw in a preseason derby held in Perth. The match was preceded by a minute’s silence in tribute to Franco Baresi, who captained Milan during a successful period in the 1980s and 1990s. Players from both teams linked arms during the tribute.
The game, played in front of 52,310 spectators in Australia, saw Serie A champions Inter take the lead through Federico Dimarco’s close-range strike in the 52nd minute. However, Milan equalised in the 83rd minute when Christopher Nkunku converted a penalty after being fouled by Carlos Augusto.
Juventus Coach Reflects on Victory
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti shared his thoughts after his team’s 1-0 victory over Chelsea. He described these friendly matches as important tests that reflect the team’s progress. Spalletti praised his team’s unity throughout the match, noting their ability to stay together under pressure and launch counter-attacks.
Spalletti indicated that Juventus created several excellent chances and could have achieved more. He highlighted the team’s solidarity and their ability to execute their strategy. The coach observed that Chelsea is a top-class side capable of building from the back, finishing plays, and driving the game’s tempo. He emphasised the importance of his team not backing down against such an opponent.
Chelsea’s next fixture is against Milan in Jakarta on Saturday.
Source: theguardian.com