Mykhailo Mudryk names ‘unbelievable’ Chelsea teammate as the toughest defender he’s come up against
Chelsea’s Mykhailo Mudryk has named one of his current teammates as the toughest defender he’s ever faced.
At 23, Mykhailo Mudryk is a formidable force on the left wing, known for his lightning speed and directness. While he’s had mixed results against elite defenders throughout his career, he has now identified a standout opponent.
Mykhailo Mudryk Calls Chelsea Star Reece James His Toughest Opponent
In a recent Instagram Q&A, Mudryk revealed that his Chelsea teammate Reece James is the hardest defender he’s ever come up against. This recognition highlights the exceptional defensive skills James possesses, making him a significant asset for Chelsea.
Training daily against top right-backs like James and Malo Gusto at Cobham offers Mudryk incredible practice. Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has previously lauded James as an “unbelievable” player, emphasizing the boost his return from injury brings to the team.
Mudryk, still considered a raw talent by The Chelsea Chronicle, continues to develop his game. With seven goals across all competitions, his growth is evident, and facing off against James in training is undoubtedly beneficial.
Reece James Admired by Many Players
Mudryk isn’t alone in his admiration for Reece James. Numerous players have recognized James’ prowess on the field. Recently, Cole Palmer praised James’ impact following his latest return from injury, highlighting his influence on the team.
Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli and Manchester City’s Phil Foden have also acknowledged James as their toughest opponent. Martinelli mentioned this via the Champions League TikTok page, while Foden shared his thoughts on the Olivia Buzaglo X channel.
Conclusion
Facing top-tier defenders like Reece James in training can significantly contribute to Mykhailo Mudryk’s development. James’ defensive capabilities are widely respected, not only by his teammates but also by players across the Premier League. As Mudryk continues to grow and refine his skills, having an “unbelievable” player like James as a daily challenge will undoubtedly elevate his game.