The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has opened disciplinary proceedings over Chelsea winger Pedro Neto (26)'s behavior during a match.
British broadcaster BBC reported on the 13th (Korea time) that UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings over Neto's action of pushing a ball boy during the match against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
The incident occurred at the end of the first leg of the 2025-2026 UEFA Champions League round of 16 match between PSG and Chelsea at Parc des Princes in Paris, France, on the 12th. Chelsea lost to PSG 2-5 that day.
In stoppage time of the second half, Neto pushed a ball boy who was seated while trying to retrieve the ball quickly. The shocked ball boy fell from his seat, and the scene immediately sparked a confrontation between players from both teams.
UEFA later said in an official statement that it had opened disciplinary proceedings against Neto for a matter that could fall under "unsporting behaviour" according to disciplinary regulations.
UEFA added that the disciplinary body will make a decision on the matter at a later date.
Neto immediately apologized for his actions after the match. In an interview with TNT Sports, he said, "I'm not normally like this. It was a moment swept up in the emotions of the game," and bowed his head.
He added, "I told him I was really sorry and I even gave him my jersey. I probably apologized more than 30 times," and explained, "He understood the situation and in the end he smiled."
He also added, "My French isn't good, so national team teammate Vitinha explained on my behalf that I'm not that kind of person."
Chelsea will play the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 against PSG at home at Stamford Bridge on the 18th. Before that, they face Newcastle United in the Premier League on the 16th. UEFA's decision on disciplinary action against Neto is expected to be made around that schedule.
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