PARIS – Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has received a formal warning from UEFA but will face no further disciplinary action after pushing a ball boy during last week’s Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain. The incident occurred in stoppage time of the 5-2 defeat at the Parc des Princes, sparking a brief confrontation between players from both sides.
Neto immediately apologized for his actions, stating he acted “in the heat of the moment” as he attempted to quickly restart play. He reportedly apologized to the ball boy directly after the match, offering his jersey as a gesture of remorse. “I’m not like this,” Neto told TNT Sports immediately after the game. “It was in the heat of the moment and I want to apologise. I gave him my shirt. I’m really sorry about it—I sense I have to apologize to him.” He added, according to reports, that he said “sorry about 35 times.”
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) investigated the incident, initially opening disciplinary proceedings against the Portuguese international for unsporting conduct. Still, the CEDB ultimately decided on a formal warning rather than a more severe punishment, such as a fine or suspension. Article 15 of UEFA’s Disciplinary Regulations allows for leniency in such cases, potentially influenced by Neto’s swift and repeated apologies.
The push itself led to a momentary stoppage in play as players converged near the sideline. The ball boy initially fell to the ground and appeared to exaggerate his reaction, a detail that added to the immediate tension. Referee Alejandro Jose Hernandez Hernandez spoke with both captains, Reece James of Chelsea and Marquinhos of PSG, but did not issue a card to Neto during the match.
This outcome means Neto is available for selection in Tuesday night’s second leg at Stamford Bridge. The 26-year-old has been a key player for Chelsea this season, making 42 appearances across all competitions, and contributing 16 goals (10 goals and six assists). Only Enzo Fernández has made more appearances for the club this season with 44. His availability is a boost for manager Mauricio Pochettino as Chelsea appear to overturn the three-goal deficit.
Neto’s journey to Chelsea has seen him progress through several clubs. Beginning his youth career with Vianense and Braga in Portugal, he had a loan spell with Lazio before establishing himself at Wolverhampton Wanderers. He joined Chelsea in August 2024, quickly becoming an integral part of the squad and helping the club secure the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup titles in his first season.
The incident at the Parc des Princes highlights the intense emotions that can arise during high-stakes Champions League matches. While Neto’s actions were deemed unacceptable, UEFA’s decision to issue only a warning suggests that his remorse and immediate apology were significant factors in the outcome. For Chelsea fans, the focus now shifts to the return leg, where Neto’s presence will be crucial as they attempt to mount a comeback against PSG.
Neto has also grow a regular feature for the Portuguese national team, earning 21 caps and scoring two goals. He was part of the Portugal squad that won the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League, further solidifying his position as a key player on the international stage.
The second leg between Chelsea and PSG is scheduled for Tuesday at Stamford Bridge. Fans can expect a fiercely contested match as Chelsea attempt to overcome the 5-2 first-leg deficit and advance to the next round of the Champions League. Neto’s performance will undoubtedly be closely watched, not only for his contributions on the pitch but also as a demonstration of his professionalism following the incident in Paris.
What’s next for Chelsea is a crucial Premier League match against Manchester United on Saturday, followed by the second leg of their Champions League tie against PSG on Tuesday. Both matches will be key tests for Pochettino’s side as they look to secure their place in both domestic and European competitions.
