Chelsea have seen their handling of Mykhailo Mudryk mocked, with a Zlatan Ibrahimovic-esque “Ferrari” jibe being aimed in the Blues’ direction.

Ukraine international winger Mudryk became a big-money addition at Stamford Bridge in January 2023, with an £89 million ($116m) transfer taking him to west London from Shakhtar Donetsk. The jet-heeled forward has found the going tough in English football.

Mudryk has registered just seven goals for Chelsea through 66 appearances, with starting berths proving hard to come by. He was considered to be a hot prospect when heading to the Premier League, and his former employers believe the 23-year-old would have flourished had he been used correctly.

Shakhtar boss Sergiy Palkin has told GOAL and SPOX when discussing Mudryk’s time at Chelsea, with inspiration being taking from Swedish star Ibrahimovic and comments that he once made about being mismanaged by Pep Guardiola at Barcelona: “You don't need a Ferrari if you don't know how to drive it. A normal car will do. If you buy a Ferrari, you should think about how to handle it. That's my opinion on Mudryk at Chelsea.”

Palkin believes that Mudryk can still deliver on expectations in England if given a regular run. He added: “I am sure that he will show his qualities when he gets the chance. He is an absolute difference maker, which can also be seen in his appearances for the Ukrainian national team. There are very few players in this category.”

Mudryk has taken in eight appearances for Chelsea this season, but has started just one Premier League fixture and been restricted to 81 minutes of game time in the English top-flight. The Blues will be back in Europa Conference League action on Thursday when taking in a trip to Panathinaikos.