The Togo striker appeared to stamp on the face of former team-mate Robin van Persie and also deliberately celebrated his goal in front of the travelling Arsenal fans.
But Hughes does not believe the clash with Van Persie was born of malicious intent.
'Emmanuel Adebayor sustained a tremendous amount of personal abuse from the kick-off but strongly maintains that there was no malice intended in the challenge on Robin van Persie and apologised to him when he hugged him on leaving the field of play at the end of the game,' said Hughes.
'The referee had a great view of the challenge from Ade and the one that preceded it by Van Persie and deemed at the time that neither were worthy of either a yellow or red card.'
But despite Hughes' opinion, both incidents are still subject to an investigation by the Football Association.
Adebayor, who left Arsenal for City in the summer, was booked by referee Mark Clattenburg for his goal celebration but could still face further punishment.
However, Hughes does not feel that his player's reaction would warrant a further penalty.
'As for Ade's emotionally charged goal celebration, which has also prompted debate, there have been similar such celebrations in recent times,' said the City boss.
'We expect high standards of behaviour from our players and it is easy in the cold light of day, when the adrenalin has died down, to talk about what players should and shouldn't do in that situation. Ade again immediately apologised but we know the FA will be reviewing the matter.'
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