Surprising Paqueta update emerges ahead of crucial West Ham clash with Leicester.

After West Ham’s crushing 5-2 loss to Arsenal, manager Julen Lopetegui faces must-win matches against Leicester City and Wolves to avoid being sacked.

 

West Ham’s ownership has labeled these fixtures as “massive,” underscoring their importance for the Spaniard’s future.

 

A silver lining for the Hammers is the return of Mohammed Kudus, who is available for the clash at King Power Stadium.

 

Kudus, often regarded as the team’s “star boy,” has been absent for the last five Premier League games due to suspension.

 

His absence has been noticeable, except in the unexpected victory against Newcastle—a result now seen as an outlier following the dismal showing against Arsenal.

 

Kudus’ return is timely, but West Ham will be without another key player, Lucas Paqueta, for the Leicester game.

The Brazilian midfielder has been inconsistent this season, raising questions about the impact of his absence.

 

However, his situation took a dramatic turn on the eve of the Leicester match due to an unexpected development regarding his involvement in an ongoing investigation.

 

Unexpected Paqueta Development

 

Paqueta was initially set to miss the Leicester game to provide evidence to the Sports Betting Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry (CPI) in Brazil.

 

He had appealed against appearing in person, citing concerns that his testimony could jeopardize his ongoing FA hearing in the UK.

 

Although the inquiry allowed him to appear via Zoom, his legal team sought a postponement to safeguard his defense in the FA case.

 

The hearing was scheduled for the same day as West Ham’s match against Leicester, making his unavailability seemingly certain.

 

However, a twist emerged just before the game.

 

According to Evening Standard reporter Dom Smith, Paqueta is no longer required to attend the inquiry, either in person or via video link.

 

This development makes him available for selection in the crucial Leicester match.

 

Smith reported, “Lucas Paqueta is no longer required to give evidence to the Brazilian parliament for their inquiry into sports betting.

 

He won’t be summoned in person, nor via video link. Available to face Leicester tomorrow.”

Big Decisions for Lopetegui

 

Paqueta’s availability presents Lopetegui with key decisions to make.

 

The Brazilian delivered a standout performance in the win against Newcastle, arguably his best of the season.

 

However, he struggled against Arsenal, contributing to two of the five goals conceded.

 

Some fans hoped Kudus might be deployed in a central role in Paqueta’s absence, allowing Crysencio Summerville to retain his spot in the side.

 

Lopetegui must now decide whether to start Paqueta or make tactical adjustments for this must-win fixture.

 

On paper, West Ham might see Leicester as an opportunity to regain form.

 

The Foxes are one of only three Premier League teams to have conceded more goals than West Ham this season.

 

However, Leicester poses a unique challenge as they will be playing their first match under new manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.

 

The managerial change is likely to inject renewed energy and focus into the Foxes, making them a formidable opponent.

 

The Stakes for West Ham

 

The stakes couldn’t be higher for Lopetegui, as his position at West Ham hangs in the balance. Ironically, his opponent, Ruud van Nistelrooy, was recently linked to the managerial role at the London Stadium—a stark reminder of the pressure surrounding Lopetegui’s tenure.

 

A win against Leicester could ease the tension and boost morale ahead of the equally critical game against Wolves.

 

Conversely, a loss could accelerate the manager’s departure, leaving West Ham scrambling for a replacement.

 

West Ham’s performances against Leicester and Wolves will likely define their season and determine whether Lopetegui remains at the helm.

 

With Kudus back in action and Paqueta unexpectedly available, Lopetegui has a fighting chance to steer the Hammers back on track.

 

However, he must navigate these challenges with precision, knowing that anything less than victory could spell the end of  his time in charge.