Chelsea ‘Block Mykhaylo Mudryk Request’ as New Boss Enzo Maresca Lays Down the Law
Chelsea have moved decisively to shape Mykhaylo Mudryk’s summer plans, preventing him from participating in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.
Under new manager Enzo Maresca, the club is keen to avoid the injury troubles that hampered their squad last season. As a result, Maresca has implemented a strict approach to the players’ off-season activities to ensure they are fit and ready for the upcoming campaign.
- Mykhaylo Mudryk: The Ukrainian forward will not be representing Ukraine at the Olympic Games. Chelsea wants him to avoid additional strain and potential injuries during the summer.
- Other Players Affected:
- Enzo Fernandez: The Argentine midfielder, currently involved in Copa America, will also miss the Olympics.
- Benoit Badiashile and Malo Gusto: Both French players are expected to be kept from joining the French Olympic team.
- Lesley Ugochukwu: Unlike his teammates, Ugochukwu has been permitted to participate in the Olympics.
- Current Tournaments: Mudryk and Fernandez are already busy with Euro 2024 and Copa America respectively. Fernandez, in particular, could miss significant pre-season time if Argentina reaches the final.
- Chelsea’s Injuries and Expectations: Last season, Chelsea was plagued by injuries to key players like Ben Chilwell, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia, Reece James, and Christopher Nkunku. This season, with a new manager, the club hopes to have a fully fit squad to improve upon their sixth-place Premier League finish last year.
Managerial Changes:
- Enzo Maresca: After leading Leicester City to the Championship title, Maresca now takes charge at Chelsea. He has no experience managing in a top European league but faces high expectations to succeed in multiple competitions, including the Premier League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup, Europa Conference League, and Club World Cup.
Chelsea’s Performance and Player Investments:
- Mykhaylo Mudryk: Bought for £88.5 million in January last year, Mudryk had a modest season with only five goals and two assists in the Premier League.
- Enzo Fernandez: The £107 million signing has faced scrutiny over his performance despite his World Cup win with Argentina.
Strategic Decisions:
Maresca’s strict control over player activities and diet (banning items like salt, pepper, and fried eggs) reflects a broader strategy to maintain player fitness and readiness. This cautious approach is part of a larger effort to ensure that Chelsea can challenge for top honors in the coming season.
Chelsea ‘Block Mykhaylo Mudryk Request’ as New Boss Enzo Maresca Lays Down the Law
