Former referee Keith Hackett has slammed UEFA’s decision to only issue a warning to Pedro Neto after the Chelsea winger pushed a ball boy during a heated Champions League defeat to PSG.
Pedro Neto has avoided a UEFA suspension following his altercation with a ball boy during Chelsea’s 5-2 Champions League loss at Paris Saint-Germain.
The winger, frustrated in stoppage time, pushed a youngster who delayed returning the ball for a throw-in.
While a melee ensued, UEFA confirmed they will not impose a match ban, leaving Neto free for the crucial return leg at Stamford Bridge.
Former top official Keith Hackett voiced his disbelief at the leniency, telling Football Insider, “I am rather surprised that Pedro Neto has escaped any sanction for his push on the ball boy.”
Hackett argued that a fine was the minimum requirement to maintain discipline. The decision is a massive relief for Enzo Maresca, who is already navigating a complex disciplinary landscape within his squad.
Neto recently served a domestic ban during Chelsea’s defeat to Newcastle after a separate misconduct charge following his red card against Arsenal.
His recent petulance has drawn scrutiny, especially as he struggles for form with no goals in his last 14 league appearances.
The Portugal international is now “walking a fine line” and must maintain composure to avoid further sanctions during this high-stakes period.
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