UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Pedro Neto following an incident involving a ball boy during Chelsea’s 5–2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League Round of 16 first leg.
In a statement on Thursday, UEFA confirmed the winger is under investigation for unsporting conduct.
“Disciplinary proceedings have been instigated against Pedro Neto for unsporting behaviour,” the governing body said.
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“UEFA’s disciplinary bodies will take a decision on this case in due course.”
The incident occurred late in Wednesday’s match when Neto knocked over a ball boy while rushing to retrieve the ball with Chelsea trailing 4–2.
The confrontation sparked a brief altercation involving players from both sides before the situation was brought under control.
Neto later apologised to the ball boy and handed him his match shirt after the game.
Speaking to broadcaster TNT Sports, Neto said the push happened in the heat of the moment as Chelsea chased the game.
“We were losing, and in the emotion of the game, I wanted to get the ball fast, and I gave him a little push,” Neto said.
“I’m not like this. 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 feel I have to apologise to him.”
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior also apologised on behalf of the club.
“If there was anything from our side that was wrong or out of order, I apologise on behalf of the club,” he said.
Neto, who has scored 10 goals in 42 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions this season, could face a suspension that would rule him out of next Tuesday’s second leg against PSG.
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