Tottenham Hotspur have received another concerning update regarding Mykhailo Mudryk, with the winger’s return from injury potentially taking longer than supporters had hoped.
The Ukrainian international joined Spurs from Chelsea on a season-long loan on transfer deadline day, giving him an opportunity to revive his career under manager Roberto De Zerbi.
However, his return to competitive football has not gone according to plan.
Mudryk suffers another setback
Mudryk made his first competitive appearance in almost two years when he came on as a substitute during Tottenham’s goalless draw against Nottingham Forest.
His brief appearance represented an important milestone after his lengthy absence from football. Unfortunately, he subsequently suffered an ankle injury during training.
The problem forced him out of action again, interrupting his efforts to regain match fitness and establish himself in De Zerbi’s team.
Initial reports indicated that the winger could be sidelined for approximately six to eight weeks, raising doubts about when he would be ready to return to the pitch.
De Zerbi had already warned about his fitness
Before the injury, De Zerbi acknowledged that Mudryk would need time to recover his physical condition after spending such a long period away from competitive football.
The Italian manager was familiar with the player from their time together at Shakhtar Donetsk and understood his qualities.
De Zerbi also recognised that returning to regular first-team football would require patience, particularly after such a lengthy absence.
The ankle problem has now complicated that process, leaving Tottenham waiting for their new signing to become available again.
Tottenham are missing an attacking option
Mudryk’s absence represents a setback for Spurs because of the qualities he brings to the attack.
His pace, dribbling ability and willingness to take on defenders could provide Tottenham with another dimension in the final third.
However, the club must now find alternative solutions while he continues his recovery.
With other attacking players also dealing with fitness problems, Mudryk’s absence could make squad selection more challenging for De Zerbi.
When could Mudryk return?
Earlier reports suggested that Mudryk could miss several matches before becoming available again. However, his precise return date depends on his recovery and when he can resume training without discomfort.
Tottenham will need to assess his progress before deciding when he is ready to return to competitive action.
The priority will be ensuring that the winger has recovered sufficiently rather than rushing him back and risking another setback.
What this means for Tottenham
Mudryk arrived at Tottenham hoping to make a fresh start and demonstrate the potential that made him one of Europe’s highly rated young attacking talents.
His reunion with De Zerbi offered the prospect of rebuilding his confidence and returning to regular football.
For now, however, his immediate focus must remain on recovering from his ankle injury and regaining his fitness.
Tottenham supporters will be hoping that the latest developments do not mean an even longer wait to see the Ukrainian winger back in action.
