Andrea Maldera, the head coach of the Ukraine national team, said he expects — but will not pressure — Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk to rejoin the squad after the player’s return to club football. Speaking to Sport.ua on 26 August 2026, Maldera called Mudryk “incredibly important” and said the federation, technical staff and players are “incredibly happy” about his comeback.
Maldera acknowledged Mudryk missed almost two years and that returning after such a pause is not easy. He said he is waiting for Mudryk and hopes the winger will be with Ukraine at the next training gathering, while underlining that the coaching staff will not force the issue as the player rebuilds match fitness.