Everton’s left-back, Vitaliy Mykolenko, reportedly sustained an adductor injury while on international duty with Ukraine during the March 2026 international break. The 26-year-old, who has been a staple in the national team since 2018, was unexpectedly not included in the starting lineup for Tuesday’s World Cup playoff against Albania. After Ukraine’s dreams of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup were dashed in a 3-1 semi-final defeat to Sweden, Bohdan Mykhailichenko replaced Mykolenko for the match against Albania.
Mykolenko Suffers Adductor Injury with Ukraine
Ukraine head coach Serhiy Rebrov clarified the situation, indicating that Mykolenko had consulted with doctors without notifying the coaching staff the day prior to the match. Although he initially claimed he was fit to play, the injury ultimately ruled him out. Rebrov mentioned that Mykolenko described the injury as not serious and anticipates his return to Everton after a five-day rest. This situation is particularly crucial, considering Mykolenko’s contract expires at the end of the season, making each fitness update significant.
“Unfortunately, he felt something. He mentioned that he saw the doctors yesterday, but I was unaware of it. When we were selecting the main squad, he said he was ready,” explained the Ukraine manager.
“It’s unfortunate that he sustained the injury, but from what I gather, he believes it’s not serious, and he now has five days off. I’m confident he’ll return to Everton in good condition.” (Via Sport Witness)
Could This Injury Be a Bigger Issue for Everton?
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MARCH 21: Vitalii Mykolenko of Everton during the Premier League match between Everton and Chelsea at Hill Dickinson Stadium on March 21, 2026, in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
It has been another inconsistent year for Mykolenko at Everton, though he has retained his position in David Moyes’s starting eleven. While this latest injury appears minor, it fits a troubling trend. This is not the first time he has faced an adductor issue; he suffered a similar injury just minutes into a pre-season friendly against Roma in August 2025. Muscle injuries such as these can be persistent, and Mykolenko’s medical history at Goodison Park, which began with hip problems in 2022, is hard to overlook.
This season, Mykolenko’s statistics are also mixed. With a 35% dribble success rate and losing possession nearly 15 times per game, he doesn’t portray the profile of a top-tier attacking fullback. However, he still brings defensive solidity, as evidenced by his 106 touches and eight duels won during the match against Sweden.
Will This Impact Everton?
In truth, not much in the immediate term. A five-day recovery for a minor strain is manageable, and Moyes will need him fit for the final seven-game push for a European spot. The real concern lies ahead in the summer. With his contract expiring, retaining a player with a history of muscle injuries poses a significant risk. It’s likely Everton will decide to part ways with him. Given his ongoing durability concerns and inconsistent performances, it may be time for the club to reassess and seek a new option at left-back rather than risking further uncertainty.