HOT: UEFA launches investigation into Chelsea star following Champions League controversy

UEFA has opened a disciplinary investigation into Pedro Neto after his action of pushing a ball boy during Chelsea's 2-5 loss to PSG in the Champions League. The Portuguese forward has apologized.

UEFA has officially launched a disciplinary investigation against Chelsea forward Pedro Neto Chelsea following an incident involving a ball boy during the 2-5 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League.

The incident occurred in the final minutes of the match when Chelsea was trailing heavily and trying to speed up the game's tempo. While rushing to the sideline to retrieve the ball to resume play, Neto showed impatience as the ball boy was slow in handing him the ball. The Portuguese forward then pushed the boy, causing him to fall onto the pitch, which heightened the tension on the field.

This situation immediately sparked controversy between players from both teams. Some PSG players approached to react, while Chelsea players also stepped in to defend their teammate, leading to a moment of chaos in the match. However, after a quick review, the referee did not issue a card to Neto.

According to a UEFA announcement on March 12, the European football governing body has formally initiated disciplinary proceedings against Neto for unsportsmanlike conduct. Specifically, the case will be reviewed under Article 15 of UEFA's Disciplinary Regulations, concerning misconduct on the pitch.

In its statement, UEFA stated: “Disciplinary proceedings have been opened against Chelsea player Pedro Lomba Neto for unsportsmanlike conduct. UEFA's disciplinary bodies will examine the case and make a decision in due time.”

After the match, Neto quickly apologized to the ball boy to calm public opinion. The 25-year-old forward admitted that the tense emotions of the game caused him to lose composure.

“I want to apologize to the ball boy. I spoke to him directly. At that moment, we were trailing and I just wanted to quickly get the ball to continue the match”, Neto shared.

Although Neto did not receive a card during the match, and even the VAR system did not intervene to suggest a red card, UEFA has decided to review the entire incident. This means the Chelsea forward still risks facing additional punishment, possibly a fine or suspension in upcoming European matches.

The heavy defeat against PSG not only caused Chelsea professional difficulties but also brought off-field disciplinary trouble for Pedro Neto.