RismadarVoice Reporters
September 5, 2026
Mykhailo Mudryk has returned to competitive football after 646 days away from action, making his Tottenham Hotspur debut during the club’s goalless Premier League draw against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
The 25-year-old winger joined Tottenham on a season-long loan deal from Chelsea on transfer deadline day and was introduced in the 74th minute at the City Ground, replacing forward Mathys Tel.
Mudryk, who had not played a competitive match since Chelsea’s UEFA Europa Conference League fixture against Heidenheim in 2024, struggled to influence proceedings during his brief appearance.
According to performance data from FotMob, the Ukrainian international recorded only four touches, completed one of his two attempted passes and covered 2.4 kilometres during his time on the pitch.
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi admitted after the match that Mudryk was still working towards full fitness and would require more time before reaching his best level.
“He’s not ready yet. He’s working to reach the best physical condition. He needs time, he needs work,” De Zerbi said.
The match proved frustrating for Tottenham, who remain without a Premier League victory and are yet to score a goal this season after three matches. The club also failed to register a shot on target in a league fixture for the first time since April 2022.
Despite the attacking struggles, De Zerbi said he was not overly concerned, insisting his team created opportunities but failed to make the right decisions in front of goal.
Mudryk’s return comes after a challenging period in his career, including a lengthy absence from football and the conclusion of his doping-related case with the Football Association last month.
The winger will now aim to rebuild his career under De Zerbi, who has previously expressed strong belief in Mudryk’s ability.
While managing Brighton, De Zerbi described Mudryk as a player with the potential to reach the highest level in football, even suggesting that he could compete for the Ballon d’Or in the future.
The Tottenham manager has also previously highlighted the need for support and confidence to help Mudryk fulfil his potential as he begins a new chapter in his career.
