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Alonso reacts on Mudryk return and Palmer’s absence in Juventus defeat
05th August, 2026 08:34 PM
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has described Mykhailo Mudryk’s return to competitive action for Chelsea as an emotional occasion after the Ukrainian winger made his long-awaited comeback during the Blues’ pre-season clash with Juventus on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
Mudryk rejoined Chelsea’s squad in Hong Kong on Monday after the anti-proceedings that had sidelined him since December 2024 were concluded. Having completed two training sessions with his teammates, the coaching staff decided he was fit enough to feature in the friendly encounter.
Before kick-off, Alonso informed the winger that he would come off the bench late in the match, a plan that had already been discussed and agreed upon with Nicolas Jackson, who entered the game at half-time.
Speaking after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Juventus, Alonso expressed his delight at seeing Mudryk back on the pitch.
“I’m really pleased for him,” Alonso said. “It was emotional for everyone from the club to see him back.
“When I told him before the game he could play 10 or 15 minutes, he was thrilled for sure. It was after such a long period [that he couldn’t play with the team], so it was a great feeling for him and for everyone else.”
The Chelsea head coach explained that giving Mudryk minutes was not based solely on football considerations, but also on supporting the player after his lengthy absence.
“It was more than a football decision. It was a human decision and emotional decision to give him this boost, to feel the great support that he got and the great reception when he came on the pitch.”
Colwill and Palmer’s absence
While Mudryk made his return, Chelsea were without Levi Colwill and Cole Palmer for the encounter. Alonso, however, dismissed concerns over the pair, insisting their absence was simply a precaution during the club’s preparations for the new season.
“They had some discomfort; Cole with a contact injury and Levi as well,” the Chelsea boss explained. “It’s not a big thing, but we want to be cautious because there’s no point in risking anything. So, we’ll go step by step, day by day.”
Chelsea’s coaching staff used the Juventus fixture to spread playing time across much of the squad as preparations continue ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with Alonso prioritising player fitness and avoiding unnecessary injury risks before the competitive season begins.
