- Calls for Fair Judgment on Mudryk’s Suspension
- Emphasizes Player Responsibility in Drug Scandals
Former Super Eagles captain and Chelsea legend, Mikel Obi, has revealed that he was offered performance-enhancing drugs during his time at the London club. The revelation comes in the wake of the provisional suspension of Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk after failing a drug test earlier this week.
Mudryk, the Ukrainian international, has maintained his innocence, stating publicly that he has “not done anything wrong.”
Mikel Defends Mudryk’s Innocence
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, Mikel expressed hope that Mudryk’s claims are truthful while emphasizing the importance of accountability.
“For him (Mudryk) and his family, I hope he is innocent. I remember when we were playing, if someone offered me something, I would always ask what it was,” Mikel said.
He added, “I’m responsible for what I put in my body, what I eat, and how I perform. People—friends, friends of friends—will try to offer things, saying they’ll give you an edge. My first question is always, ‘Is this legal?’ If not, I tell them to leave. It’s important for athletes to take responsibility for their actions.”
Mudryk’s Case: A Waiting Game
Mikel emphasized that Mudryk should be presumed innocent until proven otherwise. The former Chelsea star also highlighted the pressures professional athletes face and the temptation to seek shortcuts to enhance performance.
“I hope for Mudryk and his family’s sake that he is not guilty. Until the final judgment is made, he remains innocent,” Mikel concluded.
A Broader Call for Player Responsibility
Mikel’s candid discussion sheds light on the ethical dilemmas athletes encounter and underscores the need for vigilance in maintaining integrity in sports. The case of Mudryk continues to unfold, with Chelsea and football fans watching closely as investigations progress.