Lucas Paqueta, West Ham
Credit: Imago
Evan Lloyd
Mon 7 July 2025 10:10, UK
West Ham are still awaiting a decision from the FA after Lucas Paqueta was first investigated for alleged spot-fixing almost two years ago.
The midfielder, who joined the Hammers in 2022 from Lyon in a deal worth around £51million, will return for pre-season training on Tuesday.
Paqueta is viewed as a vital cog in Graham Potter’s team, but faced a drop-off in his form last season as West Ham struggled to a 14th-placed finish.
Reports have suggested the midfielder could leave the club this summer, but a departure is not expected to be sanctioned while the spot-fixing charge looms large.
Lucas Paqueta
Paqueta was charged by the FA last year (Credit: Imago)
West Ham ‘furious’ with FA
Paqueta was first investigated in August 2023, after accusations emerged that the Brazilian had deliberately received yellow cards in several Premier League games.
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The FA ultimately decided to charge the 27-year-old with four counts of spot-fixing and two of obstructing an FA investigation.
Paqueta has denied all charges and expressed his intention to “fight with every breath” to clear his name.
At the time of the emergence of the FA’s investigation, Paqueta had been expected to move to Manchester City, with a deal reportedly close between the clubs.
Lucas Paqueta Premier League (2024/25)
Appearances 33
Goals 4
Assists 0
Paqueta’s form has suffered
However, the news saw the move collapse, and Paqueta remained in London.
But almost two years later, a verdict is still yet to be reached after his hearing concluded last month – a delay that has West Ham “furious”, according to The Sun (July 7).
If found guilty, Paqueta could face a lifetime ban, and the nervous wait has taken a toll on the Brazilian, Potter said last season.
Paqueta ban could spell disaster for West Ham
West Ham find themselves in a very precarious position when it comes to Paqueta.
If the midfielder does receive a ban from the FA, the Hammers would likely lose the entirety of the £51m they paid for his services three years ago, a club-record fee.
Bans given out by the FA, if upheld and extended by FIFA, will spread worldwide, meaning Paqueta would not be able to play in a different league.
The situation places West Ham between a rock and a hard place, with another club unlikely to be willing to take on the risk tied to Paqueta’s situation.
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