West Ham Owners Defend Paqueta’s Playing Style Amid Major Man City Development
Paqueta's Fate Hangs in the Balance as FA Hearing Enters Second Week
Lucas Paqueta’s Spot-Fixing Trial: Key Updates and Developments
As international players leave for duty, West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta remains in London, facing what could be the most significant battle of his career.
The Brazilian midfielder is under investigation by the FA for alleged spot-fixing, with accusations of deliberately receiving yellow cards to manipulate betting markets.
If found guilty, he could face a lifetime ban from football.
Man City’s Interest and Paqueta’s Legal Battle
Manchester City, who had been close to signing Paqueta for £85 million in August 2023, are closely monitoring the situation.
The failed transfer was set to include a deal that would have sent Cole Palmer to West Ham.
Meanwhile, Man City is also awaiting judgment on their own 115 financial charges from the Premier League.
Paqueta has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has enlisted top legal representation to defend him.
His trial is expected to last three weeks, with slow progress anticipated. West Ham are concerned, as the outcome will be decided by an independent three-person panel.
West Ham’s Stance and Moyes’ Involvement
West Ham have made a case for Paqueta’s playing style being naturally aggressive rather than intentional.
A club spokesperson highlighted his recent yellow card against Everton as an example, suggesting that his tendency to get booked is just part of how he plays.
However, the club does not have a representative at the hearings every day.
In a surprising development, former West Ham manager David Moyes is set to provide testimony in Paqueta’s defense.
According to reports, Moyes will confirm that Paqueta requested to be left out of a match against Bournemouth due to the distractions caused by Man City’s interest in signing him.
He eventually played but was booked in stoppage time—one of four yellow cards under scrutiny in the case.
The Bigger Picture and Potential Consequences
Paqueta’s defense hinges on proving that he was reluctant to play in that Bournemouth match, undermining claims of intentional misconduct.
Moyes’ testimony could be crucial in supporting this argument.
Despite the uncertainty, Paqueta remains focused on clearing his name.
If the panel rules against him, his match against Everton could be one of his last for West Ham.
Observers noted his extended applause to fans when subbed off, possibly acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
