Tensions between PSG and Chelsea flared up after the final whistle (Chelsea won 3-0) at Metlife Stadium on the night of July 13. Players from both teams argued and pushed each other, including Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Fabian Ruiz, Hakimi, Andrey Santos and Nkunku.
Coach Luis Enrique confirmed that he slapped Joao Pedro because he only wanted to... stop him (Photo: Getty).
During the chaos, striker Joao Pedro confronted coach Luis Enrique and was slapped in the face by the Spanish coach in front of many witnesses. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma then joined in, pushing Pedro to the ground, making the incident even more tense.
After the video of the controversial action went viral on social media, coach Luis Enrique was forced to respond. He affirmed that he did not intend to attack the opposing player but only wanted to intervene to calm the situation.
The Spaniard said: “At the end of the game, there was a situation that I think was completely avoidable. My intention, as always, was to separate the players, to avoid an escalation. There was too much tension, too much pressure and then there was a series of pushes from all sides.
Goalkeeper Donnarumma also "physically impacted" Joao Pedro afterwards. Meanwhile, Chelsea players stopped coach Luis Enrique (Photo: Getty).
I emphasize, I do not seek to provoke anyone. Everyone should make efforts to not repeat the same thing in the future.”
However, the PSG coach's explanation is unlikely to satisfy the public, given that FIFA is considering opening an official disciplinary investigation. However, since PSG will not play under FIFA's direct control until the Intercontinental Cup in December, a match ban is unlikely to be applied immediately.
Instead, FIFA is likely to impose a ban from football activities for a period of time, including coaching and directing matches.
Referee expert Eduardo Gonzalez commented: “If found guilty, coach Luis Enrique could be banned for a month. During that time, he will not be allowed to direct or participate in training sessions with the team.”
He also stressed the seriousness of the incident: “No one should touch the face of an opposing player, especially after the match. Whoever it is, if such an act occurs, they can receive appropriate punishment.”
As for Joao Pedro, this player later shared that he just wanted to protect his teammate Andrey Santos while the PSG players surrounded him. The Brazilian striker shared: “I saw Andrey surrounded, so I instinctively rushed to protect my friend. In the chaos, I was pushed to the ground. But that's football, things like that sometimes happen. We won, that's enough. I don't want to say more about them.”
FIFA has yet to confirm whether it will formally investigate and take disciplinary action against coach Luis Enrique or any other individuals involved in the incident.
Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/hlv-luis-enrique-len-tieng-ly-giai-vi-sao-thang-tay-tat-ngoi-sao-chelsea-20250715120549302.htm
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