Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk found himself under scrutiny after attending Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk at the Emirates Stadium. The Ukrainian winger, who previously spent seven years at Shakhtar, has struggled to make an impact since joining Chelsea in January 2023 for a hefty fee that made him one of the most expensive signings in Premier League history.
Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, Mudryk has faced a challenging time, managing only five Premier League goals and starting just once this season under new manager Enzo Maresca. His disappointing performances have led to questions about his future, especially after being left out of the squad for Chelsea’s recent match against Liverpool.
Taking advantage of his time off, Mudryk was spotted in the stands as Arsenal hosted Shakhtar. His attendance sparked a wave of reactions from Chelsea supporters, with many suggesting he should consider a move away from the club. Comments on social media ranged from “Can he stay there?” to suggestions of a potential loan to Arsenal, with some fans believing that under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, he could find success.
Former England striker Darren Bent echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Mudryk would likely perform better at Arsenal than he currently does at Chelsea. He emphasized that a clear plan under Arteta could help Mudryk regain his form.
Despite the chatter about his potential future, Chelsea manager Maresca has urged Mudryk to step up and prove his worth. “I don’t think it’s a lack of confidence,” Maresca stated. “Misha is Misha; you have to accept the way he is. Hopefully, he can get minutes and do better.”
Former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy also weighed in, expressing skepticism about Mudryk’s ability to fit into the team’s plans. He pointed out that Mudryk is now behind several players in the pecking order and suggested a loan might be beneficial for his development.
As Chelsea prepares for a crucial match against Newcastle United, Mudryk’s future remains uncertain, with fans divided on whether he can still fulfill the expectations that came with his hefty price tag. The Blues currently sit sixth in the Premier League, just outside the Champions League places, and will be looking to build on their promising start to the 2024-25 season.