Lucas Paqueta alongside a circle inset of Nuno Espirito Santo.
Credit: Imago
Samuel Fabre
Wed 29 October 2025 10:10, UK
West Ham’s season has taken a further turn for the worse amid news that Lucas Paqueta’s future in E20 is back in doubt.
News emerged on Tuesday that Paqueta wants to leave West Ham in January, with the Hammers currently sitting 19th in the Premier League.
The Brazilian midfielder has featured in every match this season, as West Ham’s struggles continue to worsen both on and off the pitch.
Paqueta would be a huge loss for the Hammers, and supporters are dreading the reality that his departure may come sooner than they’d hoped.
Lucas Paqueta playing for West Ham looking shocked
credit: Imago
Lucas Paqueta’s social media post hints he may stay at West Ham
West Ham are predicted to be relegated this season, as supporters at the London Stadium continue to protest against David Sullivan.
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Paqueta’s future at West Ham was under speculation during the summer transfer window, with Aston Villa very keen on the Brazil international.
However, amid these fresh reports surrounding Paqueta‘s future, the Brazilian posted an image on his personal X account that suggests there may be little truth to them.
For West Ham fans, this message will give them hope that one of their most influential players will stay at the club for the remainder of the season.
He is one of the key components in Nuno Espirito Santo’s team, and fans may not have hope in West Ham’s survival chances if he were to leave.
A return to Flamengo is on the cards, whilst plenty of top European clubs will likely be ready to start negotiations for the 28-year-old.
Should Paqueta’s exit come in January, supporters may turn on him for leaving at a moment when they desperately need him.
West Ham are in dire need of additional quality in their squad whilst they fight relegation, and losing one of their most talented players would certainly anger the supporters even more.
Lucas Paqueta's 2024/25 and 2025/26 Premier League seasons
Paqueta’s 2024/25 and 2025/26 Premier League seasons
If Paqueta were to leave, though, Mateus Fernandes is more than capable of stepping up in his absence.
West Ham must turn to Mateus Fernandes as Lucas Paqueta replacement if Brazilian does go
Having joined West Ham for a fee of £42million from Southampton, Fernandes has excelled for West Ham when he’s been given a chance.
The 21-year-old has often featured on the right side of central midfield alongside Lucas Paqueta, and if the latter were to leave, then Fernandes could be deployed in his more attacking role.
Having cost West Ham a huge amount of money, Fernandes has the potential to become one of the most talented midfielders at the club, and Paqueta’s exit would allow him to showcase his talents further.
Paqueta’s potential departure will be a sore one for West Ham supporters, yet the silver lining is that they already have his replacement at the club.
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