Pedro Neto Escapes UEFA Ban After Incident with Ball Boy

Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has narrowly avoided a UEFA ban following a controversial incident with a ball boy during a Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain. The player pushed the boy while trying to retrieve the ball, leading to a brief altercation. Although UEFA issued a warning for unsporting conduct, Neto has already faced domestic repercussions, including a one-match ban and a fine. He has publicly apologized for his actions and will be available for the crucial second leg against PSG at Stamford Bridge. Read on for more details about the incident and its aftermath.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 12:28 IST

No Ban for Chelsea's Pedro Neto

Chelsea's winger Pedro Neto will not face a ban from UEFA after an incident involving a ball boy during last week's Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain. The 26-year-old player was involved in a controversial moment where he pushed the ball boy off his seat while trying to retrieve the ball late in Chelsea's 5-2 defeat at Parc des Princes, leading to a brief altercation among players.

Following an investigation, UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body decided to issue only a warning for what they termed 'unsporting conduct.'

Neto's Apology and Response

Immediately after the incident, Neto expressed his regret both publicly and privately, even presenting his shirt to the ball boy as a gesture of goodwill. He described the shove as uncharacteristic of him, stating to TNT Sports that he was 'really sorry' and reiterated his apologies several times. PSG midfielder Vitinha assisted in translating Neto's sentiments, reassuring the boy that it was a mistake made in the heat of the moment.

Chelsea's manager, Liam Rosenior, acknowledged the negative perception of the incident but commended Neto for his prompt apology, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes.

Upcoming Matches and Domestic Punishment

Thanks to the lack of a ban, Neto will be eligible to play in the crucial second leg at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, where Chelsea needs to overcome a three-goal deficit against the reigning champions.

However, Neto has already faced consequences domestically, having missed Saturday's match against Newcastle due to a one-match ban and a £70,000 fine imposed by the FA for his actions following a red card received in a previous match against Arsenal.