Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso shared his thoughts on Mykhailo Mudryk’s comeback as the winger returned to competitive play following a 20-month absence. The comments followed Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Juventus at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong, which served as the team’s third pre-season fixture.
Alonso also provided clarity regarding the fitness of Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill. He explained that both players were dealing with minor discomforts rather than significant injuries, noting that they were rested as a precaution to ensure they are available for upcoming matches on Saturday. Colwill missed Tuesday’s open training, while Palmer performed individual drills away from the primary squad.
Mudryk, the 25-year-old winger, stepped back onto the pitch for the first time in nearly two years after his anti-doping suspension was rescinded last week. He entered the match as a second-half substitute for Nicolas Jackson. Alonso expressed genuine happiness for the player, highlighting the emotional significance of his return and noting that he had pre-arranged the brief 10-15 minute cameo for the winger.
The match was decided by Edon Zhegrova, who scored for Juventus with a long-range strike into the top corner during the second half. Despite limiting Juventus to only one other shot on target, Chelsea could not manage to level the score.
