He has been let off with a warning....
Split image of FA badge and Man United corner flag
(Photo by Catherine Ivill - The FA/Marc Atkins via Getty Images)
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been issued a formal reprimand and a warning as to his future conduct by an independent Football Association (FA) Regulatory Commission.
The sanction officially concludes the lengthy FA investigation that has overshadowed the Brazilian’s career for over two years.
The commission’s decision follows a finding that Paqueta committed two proven breaches, concerning his failure to fully comply with the FA’s requirement to answer questions and provide information during their probe.
The West Ham star, reportedly acting on legal advice, had given “no comment” to numerous questions across two interviews.
Crucially, the independent panel had already cleared Paqueta in July of the original and more serious charges of deliberately seeking to be booked in four separate matches to affect betting markets, finding those allegations to be not proven.
Despite being found guilty of the non-cooperation charges, the commission opted for the lowest possible sanction, a reprimand and a warning, citing several mitigating factors.
The panel didn’t fine him because:
He was following his lawyer’s advice.
He doesn’t have legal training and doesn’t speak English fluently.
He already lost money because his big transfer to Manchester City didn’t happen.
The long investigation caused him mental stress.
Manchester United have made initial contact with West Ham regarding Lucas Paqueta
Lucas Paqueta in action for West Ham
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
I previously reported thatPaqueta is now seeking a move away from West Ham in the January transfer window amid the club’s poor form.
He was keen on leaving in the summer as well andAston Villa even made an offer for him before deadline day, however, the Hammers rejected the move.
Manchester United have now emerged as ‘very keen’ suitors for the midfielder.
The Red Devils have already made their first move to sign Lucas Paqueta!!
It is said thatWest Ham will be open to selling him for a fee close to £60 million as they look to raise funds to bolster their squad in January.
Why Manchester United view Paqueta as the ideal midfield addition
While United possess creativity in Bruno Fernandes and potential defensive stability in others, the aging core, including the likes of Casemiro and the requirement for younger legs, makes Paqueta an optimal fit.
He offers not just flair, but a crucial blend of attacking creativity and defensive work rate.
Paqueta’s stats from this season further highlights his unique profile as a complete, modern midfielder.
While playing in a struggling West Ham side (currently 19th), he remains an influential player:
He has demonstrated a high number of chances created (13 in 9 matches) and recorded 115 successful passes into the final third (more than double any other West Ham player).
This ability to consistently transition the ball into dangerous areas is exactly what United’s forward line requires.
Advanced metrics also place him in the 96th percentile for aerial duels won and 96th percentile for defensive contributions when compared to other attacking midfielders/wingers, quantifying his reputation as an all-action player.
By moving for Paqueta in January, United would secure a proven, top-level Premier League performer.
He represents a strategic signing that brings the requisite pace, technical ability, and tactical discipline needed to significantly upgrade the Old Trafford midfield and strengthen their pursuit of a top-four finish.