West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá has launched an extraordinary attack on football's governing bodies, criticising a severe lack of support following his controversial red card in the 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.
On-Field Dismissal Sparks Emotional Reaction
The Brazil international was sent off at the London Stadium after receiving two quick yellow cards for dissent from referee Darren England. This dismissal came during a match where Alexander Isak's goal secured a vital win for the visiting Liverpool side, compounding a difficult afternoon for the Hammers.
However, the incident on the pitch was merely the catalyst for a much deeper grievance. Taking to social media platform X after the match, Paquetá posted an emotional statement addressing the personal toll of a recent two-year FA investigation into spot-fixing allegations.
A Two-Year Ordeal and a Blocked Transfer
The 28-year-old player was at the centre of a major FA probe, accused of deliberately receiving yellow cards for betting purposes. Although he was cleared of all charges in July, the lengthy case had significant professional consequences.
The investigation cost Paquetá a prospective transfer to Manchester City two summers ago, a move that was highly likely before the allegations emerged. This backdrop of prolonged stress and career disruption formed the core of his online outburst.
In his post, Paquetá wrote: "I understand that now I have to come across as the villain; it’s hard to live with everything that’s been caused in my life and in my psyche! I’ll keep trying to ensure they don’t affect me even more. This doesn’t justify my expulsion, and for that I apologise to the fans and my teammates!"
Psychological Support Demand and Manager's Response
Responding directly to a Sky Sports post where co-commentator Rob Green described his sending-off as "ridiculous behaviour," Paquetá escalated his criticism. He stated that it was "ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation."
He suggested his on-pitch conduct was a direct result of the immense pressure, adding, "Perhaps this ridiculous behaviour is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure and, it seems, have to continue enduring! I’m sorry if I’m not perfect." The Football Association has been approached for comment regarding these serious allegations.
West Ham's head coach, Nuno Espírito Santo, addressed the incident cautiously in his post-match press conference. He acknowledged the difficulty of playing a team like Liverpool with ten men but reserved judgement, stating he would seek a private conversation with Paquetá first to understand the situation fully before making any further public comments.
