'Get off the pitch' – Chelsea fans in disbelief at 'terrible' Pedro Neto moment vs Man City

Chelsea supporters erupted in frustration during their tense Premier League clash against Manchester City on January 4, 2026, at the Etihad Stadium, which ended in a frustrating draw. The match, coming just days after Enzo Maresca's shock departure from the club, saw winger Pedro Neto at the center of a viral moment that left fans demanding he be substituted.

In the early stages of the game, Neto found himself in a promising position on the right flank, with space to exploit. Teammate Joao Pedro made a well-timed run into the box, perfectly positioned for a cut-back or low cross that could have led to a goal-scoring opportunity. Instead, Neto opted for a wayward shot that sailed high over the crossbar, clearing it by several yards and wasting a golden chance.[3][4]

Social media exploded with backlash. One fan tweeted, "Get off the pitch!" while others labeled the decision "terrible" and "brainless," questioning Neto's composure under pressure. Comments poured in: "Neto had the whole goal to aim for a teammate but blasts it into row Z," and "That's why we can't win big games – shocking awareness."[1][2]

The miss epitomized Chelsea's struggles amid chaos following Maresca's exit on January 1. Neto, speaking post-match, admitted surprise at the sacking, calling Maresca "unbelievable" personally and tactically, and expressed sadness over losing the coach who boosted his form since his 2024 arrival from Wolves.[1][2][5] Under interim boss Calum McFarlane, Chelsea held City to a 2-2 draw but dropped points late, heightening fan discontent.

Neto's error, captured in highlights, has intensified scrutiny on the squad's mentality as Chelsea chase European spots, with Liam Rosenior tipped as Maresca's replacement.[1]

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