Shakhtar Donetsk's Sporting Director Dario Srna and CEO Serhii Palkin Back Mykhailo Mudryk's Innocence

In the world of professional football, few stories capture attention like a high-profile doping case. Mykhailo Mudryk, the talented Ukrainian winger who made a blockbuster move from Shakhtar Donetsk to Chelsea in January 2023, is currently embroiled in such a controversy. Suspended since late 2024 after testing positive for the banned substance Meldonium, Mudryk faces an uncertain future with potential bans looming.

However, according to an exclusive BBC Sport interview with Nizaar Kinsella, key figures from his former club, Shakhtar Donetsk, have come out strongly in his defense. Sporting director Dario Srna and CEO Serhii Palkin have both expressed unwavering belief in Mudryk's innocence, emphasizing moral support over financial concerns.

As the investigation continues, Srna and Palkin's vocal backing highlights the human side of the sport, reminding fans that behind the headlines are real people navigating complex challenges.

Background on Mykhailo Mudryk's Doping Case

Mykhailo Mudryk's troubles began in December 2024 when a routine urine test, conducted while he was on international duty with Ukraine, returned positive for meldonium—a substance banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) since 2016 for its potential to enhance athletic performance. The Football Association (FA) formally charged the 24-year-old in June 2025, leading to his immediate suspension from all football activities. Mudryk has not featured for Chelsea since November 28, 2024, and remains barred from training with the team or representing Ukraine.

Meldonium, often used to treat heart conditions, can improve oxygen delivery to muscles, giving it a performance-enhancing edge in sports. Notable athletes like Maria Sharapova have faced bans for its use in the past. Mudryk, however, has steadfastly maintained his innocence, stating on social media that he has "never knowingly used any banned substances." To bolster his case, he reportedly passed a lie detector test, though its admissibility in official proceedings remains unverified.

The case has broader implications, potentially affecting Ukraine's national team as they push for World Cup 2026 qualification. Mudryk's absence has been felt in recent matches, contributing to frustrations within Ukrainian football circles. If found guilty, he could face a ban of up to four years, though appeals to bodies like the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) could extend the timeline, similar to cases involving players like Paul Pogba.

Shakhtar Donetsk, Mudryk's boyhood club where he rose through the academy ranks, stands to lose significant add-ons from his €70 million transfer to Chelsea—potentially up to €30 million tied to performance milestones. Despite this, the club's leadership has prioritized support for the player over monetary interests.

Dario Srna's Unwavering Support for Mudryk

Dario Srna, a Shakhtar legend turned sporting director, has been vocal about his belief in Mykhailo Mudryk's innocence. As someone who has known Mudryk since his academy days, Srna's comments carry personal weight.

"We feel so sorry for him. We know he is 100% innocent - he will show that. We support him like an ex-player, a human being and a friend. We don't think the money is important," Srna stated.

Srna emphasized the club's focus on the individual rather than finances: "When we speak about Mudryk, we don't think about the money, we speak about the human being." This sentiment underscores Shakhtar's commitment to their former players, especially during tough times.

In addition to public statements, Srna has maintained direct contact with Mudryk. "From time to time, I've spoken with Mudryk on the phone, and we've even met a couple of times in London. We maintain contact because he is our academy graduate and a high-profile player," he revealed. "Our relationship has always been good, and I felt it was important to support him morally during this period."

Srna's involvement highlights the tight-knit nature of Ukrainian football, where personal bonds often extend beyond club affiliations. His confidence in Mudryk's ability to prove his innocence could boost the player's morale as he navigates the legal process.

Serhii Palkin's Call for Swift Resolution and Support

Shakhtar Donetsk CEO Serhii Palkin has echoed Srna's sentiments, expressing bafflement at the situation while advocating for Mudryk's support. Palkin's comments address not only the player's innocence but also the wider impact on Ukrainian football's reputation.

"No idea (how it happened). Based on the information available to me, I simply cannot understand the circumstances that led to it," Palkin said, reflecting his confusion over the positive test.

Palkin has actively engaged with the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF) to push for assistance. "I have been in contact with the UAF. I asked them to support Mudryk and requested that the lawyers handling this case respond responsibly and without delay," he explained. He stressed the national stakes: "This situation affects the image of Ukraine and Ukrainian football as a whole. That's why, if there is any opportunity to help him, we must do so."

Addressing rumors of legal action against the UAF—stemming from reports that Shakhtar and Chelsea might sue over the handling of the case—Palkin was dismissive. "I don't know where that information [about potentially suing the UAF] came from. It's nonsense. This idea has no basis whatsoever," he asserted. This directly counters earlier speculations that financial losses might prompt lawsuits.

Looking forward, Palkin remains optimistic: "I remain hopeful that this process with Mudryk will be resolved as quickly as possible, and that he will return to the pitch to continue his career." His proactive approach, including personal meetings and calls with Mudryk, reinforces Shakhtar's role as a supportive former club.

Implications for Mudryk and Ukrainian Football

As Mykhailo Mudryk continues to train privately in London, maintaining his fitness and mental well-being through routines like church attendance, the support from Srna and Palkin could prove invaluable. Their belief in his innocence not only bolsters his defense but also sends a message about solidarity in Ukrainian football amid ongoing challenges, including the war's impact on the sport.

For fans searching for updates on the Mykhailo Mudryk doping scandal, this case serves as a reminder of the complexities in anti-doping enforcement. While the outcome remains uncertain, the backing from influential figures like Srna and Palkin keeps hope alive for Mudryk's swift return to the pitch. As developments unfold, the football community will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes fairness and integrity.