Alonso calls Mudryk's return emotional for Chelsea in preseason match

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso characterized Mykhailo Mudryk's return to first-team action as an emotional moment during the club's 1-0 preseason defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong. Mudryk, who had been sidelined for 20 months following anti-doping proceedings, made his comeback as a late substitute. Alonso expressed his satisfaction, emphasizing that the decision to play Mudryk was about more than just football, aiming to boost the player's reintegration into the squad. Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, both absent for the match, are not seriously injured according to Alonso, who noted the club's cautious approach to player health during preseason preparations.

• 6:15 PMYahoo Sports — Alonso hails Mudryk return as ’emotional’ moment for Chelsea