West Ham United are preparing to offer midfielder Lucas Paquetá access to psychological support following his sending-off for dissent during Sunday's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.
The Incident and Internal Reaction
The Brazil international was shown two yellow cards in quick succession by referee Darren England for arguing over a decision, reducing his side to ten men with Liverpool leading just 1-0. The club have internally criticised Paquetá for letting his teammates down, with his dismissal severely damaging West Ham's chances of a result. This is not the first time the 28-year-old has been in trouble for dissent, having come close to a red card in a match against Leeds United in October.
Roots of the Problem: The FA Investigation
However, the club's response is nuanced. Senior figures recognise that Paquetá is struggling with the aftermath of a protracted Football Association investigation into alleged spot-fixing. Cleared of all charges in July 2024, the player was left in limbo for two years under the threat of a potential lifetime ban. A source close to the club described Paquetá as feeling "bitter and let down" by the process, suggesting the immense pressure contributed to his on-field outburst.
Paquetá himself took to social media after the Liverpool game to voice his frustration, writing in Portuguese and English. He apologised for the red card but highlighted the lack of psychological support from football's authorities during his ordeal, stating: "It’s hard to live with everything that’s been caused in my life and in my psyche!" He later added, "It’s ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support."
West Ham's Delicate Balancing Act
West Ham, who stood by the player during the FA probe, have noted these posts and are not underestimating their significance. The club will discuss this week how best to help their record signing regain focus. With the team outside the relegation zone only on goal difference, they need Paquetá at his influential best. However, his form has been inconsistent this season, with just four goals and no assists since March 2024, and he has already served a one-match ban for accumulating five bookings.
The situation presents a dilemma for manager Nuno Espírito Santo. While the club's sympathy for Paquetá's situation is evident, it is not unlimited. They are in a fierce relegation battle and require leadership from their key players. Some within the club even believe selling Paquetá in the January transfer window could raise vital funds for reinforcements. For now, the immediate plan is to provide professional support, hoping to help the player move past his traumatic experience and channel his energies back onto the pitch.
