European football's governing body has commenced formal action against Chelsea's the Portuguese international following an incident where he knocked over a young stadium attendant during the Champions League defeat by Paris St‑Germain.
The Portugal international, Neto, shoved the boy during added time of Wednesday's last-16 first leg at Parc des Princes – a match in which his team suffered a 5-2 – an action that led to him falling from a stool.
The incident triggered a confrontation involving both sets of players.
Officials stated action has been taken against Neto for "conduct contrary to sporting spirit" under UEFA's code.
"Disciplinary officials will take a decision regarding this matter at a later date," UEFA added in its statement.
Neto expressed regret over his actions and blamed getting swept up "in the intensity of the match" when he sought to get back the match ball.
"This is out of character for me. It happened in the passion of the game and I sincerely apologise. I gave him my shirt. I'm really sorry about it - an apology is necessary," Neto explained to broadcasters.
"My French is not very good, so teammate Vitinha intervened and said to him that this isn't my normal behaviour.
"Finally he [the ball boy] laughed and I presented him with my jersey and said sorry about 35 times. He understood it was a mistake and was content with how it was resolved."
Chelsea welcome Paris St-Germain next Tuesday in the second leg, following a match against Newcastle to Stamford Bridge on Saturday in the Premier League.
