Mykhailo Mudryk could return to football at Chelsea’s sister club RC Strasbourg Alsace, according to sources close to the London club.
The Ukrainian winger has been banned from playing after testing positive for prohibited substances with no official timeline for his return has been confirmed by authorities or by Chelsea bit it looks like planning has already begun for how Mudryk can resume his career once eligible again.
Foot Mercato in France reports that Chelsea are exploring a loan move to their Ligue 1 affiliate with a source close to the club stated: “There is a possibility that Mykhailo Mudryk will go to Strasbourg. He would surely have the humility to accept this challenge after almost two years without playing, if he is offered a loan.”
The arrangement would provide Mudryk with a low-pressure environment to rebuild match fitness and confidence.
A source close to Chelsea: “There is a possibility that Mykhailo Mudryk will go to Strasbourg. He would surely have the humility to accept this challenge after almost 2 years without playing, if he is offered a loan” (via @footmercato) pic.twitter.com/gh2qwzGnQP
— ChelsTransfer (@ChelsTransfer) March 16, 2026
Strasbourg loan offers Mykhailo Mudryk pathway back to football
Strasbourg represents an ideal landing spot for Mudryk’s comeback.
The French club operates under the same ownership structure as Chelsea, simplifying any loan arrangement.
Competition levels in Ligue 1 sit below the Premier League’s intensity which allows Mudryk for gradual adaptation after an extended absence and this move will also remove him from the intense scrutiny which comes around playing in English football and at Chelsea specifically.
Nearly two years without competitive football presents a significant challenge for any player so Mudryk will need to regain that physical conditioning, tactical sharpness and mental confidence so throwing him straight back into Chelsea’s first team after such a layoff carries substantial risk.
A season-long loan at Strasbourg provides the game time necessary to rediscover his form without the pressure of performing for a top club immediately.