Mykhailo Mudryk warned to lay off the weights as Chelsea look to kickstart his Premier League career
Chelsea have warned Mykhailo Mudryk to lay off the weights and cut back on extra gym sessions in a bid to help kickstart his Premier League career. The 22-year-old arrived at Stamford Bridge in January amid a blaze of triumphalism after Chelsea hijacked Arsenal’s move for the Ukraine international after agreeing to pay a stunning £88million fee.
After an encouraging debut against Liverpool, Mudryk struggled to win the faith of Graham Potter and his interim replacement Frank Lampard, ending last season without a goal and only one assist to his name. Mudryk faces increased competition for a first team starting place in Mauricio Pochettino’s first team set-up this term following another astonishing recruitment drive over the course of the summer window.
Pochettino is yet to hand Mudryk a starting opportunity this season but the winger’s attitude and determination to win over the club’s new manager is said to remain intact. Indeed, according to the Athletic, Chelsea have grown concerned that Mudryk has been ‘overdoing’ it and has spent to much time in the gym in an attempt to bulk up and cope with the physical demands of the Premier League.
Mudryk’s Struggles at Chelsea
‘He needs to feel comfortable, feel really strong in his body,’ said Pochettino speaking about Mudryk’s difficulties ahead of last weekend’s defeat against Nottingham Forest. ‘He suffered from the beginning. We are focused on trying to help him be really strong and healthy. No one can perform if you don’t feel strong in your body. We are working in all of the areas he needs to feel good. I hope in the next weeks he starts to find his form.’
Mudryk’s Future at Chelsea
Mudryk has been tipped as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe and his potential is clear for all to see. He has all the attributes to become a key player for Chelsea, but he must first prove himself on the pitch and show that he can handle the physical demands of the Premier League.
For now, it appears that Chelsea are taking a cautious approach with Mudryk and are trying to ensure that he is not overworking himself in the gym. If he can find his form and get back to full fitness then he could be a key player for Chelsea this season.
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