Paris – Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has issued an apology after an incident during Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, where he appeared to shove a ball boy during stoppage time of the first-leg tie. The incident occurred as Chelsea were trailing 4-2 at the Parc des Princes, sparking a brief altercation between players from both sides.
Neto’s actions, captured on camera, showed him using both hands to push the ball boy, causing the youngster to fall backward onto an advertising board. The moment quickly escalated as players converged, with PSG stars intervening to separate the situation. Despite the commotion, Neto was not cautioned by the referee during the match. The incident occurred amidst a challenging night for Chelsea, ultimately falling 5-2 to the French champions.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Neto expressed his remorse. “I want to apologise to the ball boy. I have already spoken to him,” he said. “We were losing and in the emotion of the game I wanted to get the ball fast and I gave him a little push. 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 perceive I have to apologise to him.” He further explained that Portugal teammate Vitinha helped to convey his apology, as his French language skills are limited. “My French is not very good, and [Portugal team-mate] Vitinha came over and said to him I was not like this.”
Neto described a positive resolution to the situation, stating the ball boy accepted his apology. “At the conclude he [the ball boy] laughed and I gave him my shirt and said sorry about 35 times. He could spot what had happened and was happy with the situation.”
Chelsea Manager Also Addresses the Incident
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior also addressed the incident, offering an apology on behalf of the club. “I saw there was an altercation with the ball boy,” Rosenior stated. “But if there was anything from our side that was wrong or out of order, I apologise on behalf of the club. But I think Pedro has done so in interviews. I genuinely haven’t seen it back.” Rosenior also acknowledged the need for his team to manage their emotions better in such situations, particularly after conceding a fifth goal shortly after the incident.
The incident raises questions about potential disciplinary action from UEFA. As of Thursday, March 12, 2026, it remains unclear whether Neto will face any further punishment from European football’s governing body.
Neto’s Gesture of Apology
Beyond the verbal apology, Neto reportedly offered a gesture of goodwill to the ball boy, presenting him with his No. 7 jersey. Reports indicate the ball boy was pleased with the gesture, accepting the shirt and offering forgiveness. This attempt to rectify the situation highlights Neto’s regret over his actions and his desire to make amends.
The incident occurred during a difficult night for Chelsea, who suffered a significant defeat in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie. The team will need to regroup and address their defensive vulnerabilities ahead of the return leg at Stamford Bridge. The focus will now shift to preparing for the second leg and attempting to overturn the 5-2 deficit against a formidable PSG side.
The outcome of the second leg, scheduled for April 8, 2026, will determine whether Chelsea can continue their Champions League campaign. The club will also be looking to learn from this incident and ensure that players maintain composure and respect in all future encounters.
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