Lucas Paqueta
(Credit:Imago)
Carla Devine
Sun 25 May 2025 19:09, UK
Lucas Paqueta has not had the season he would have hoped for at West Ham, with events off the pitch having a massive impact.
The Brazilian’s future is uncertain as it stands, as he waits for the outcome of a Football Association investigation into alleged betting offences.
The 27-year-old has been accused of deliberately getting himself booked on four occasions, with a lifetime ban from football potentially on the cards if he is found guilty.
Paqueta has denied any wrongdoing, and if he is cleared, a move away from West Ham could be on the cards, with Manchester City previously interested in signing him.
Graham Potter
Graham Potter has a big summer ahead at West Ham. (Credit: Imago)
Paqueta says goodbye to West Ham
Despite the uncertainty over the outcome of Paqueta’s trial, West Ham have stuck by the attacker in the meantime, allowing him to play on.
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The Brazilian has made 33 Premier League appearances this season, scoring four goals in the process.
Appearances Goals Assists
33 4 0
Paqueta for West Ham this season.
As the Hammers went out on a high, with a 3-1 win against Ipswich Town on the final day of the season, Paqueta was given 10 minutes of game time, coming on in the 80th minute.
There’s a big summer ahead for Graham Potter, who needs to put his stamp on things in East London and although the outcome of his trial isn’t known, it could be the end of the road for Paqueta.
After the full-time whistle, the West Ham players made their way over to the travelling supporters to thank them for their support across the season.
However, as the squad stood together, the Hammers attacker stood back on his own and applauded by himself, which could be his way of saying goodbye to those in the stands.
West Ham could cut ties with Paqueta
There is a big job ahead for Potter and David Sullivan this summer and with the outcome of this investigation hanging over the Brazilian, it could force a difficult decision to be made.
It has been reported that Flamengo are interested in a move for Paqueta this summer, with talks said to be underway with the player’s representatives.
Due to the uncertainty, the hierarchy at the London Stadium could well see this as their opportunity to cut ties and break free in case of an unfavourable outcome in the FA’s investigation.
It’s been a difficult season for all at West Ham and Paqueta’s actions may have just been a reflection of that, but his separation from the squad doesn’t look too promising for a future in East London.
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