Lucas Paquetá didn’t hold back after West Ham’s defeat to Liverpool, using social media to vent about what he describes as two years of emotional strain.
The Brazilian midfielder, who was dismissed during Sunday’s match for repeatedly arguing with the referee, claimed that the Premier League offered him virtually no psychological support during his long-running spot-fixing investigation — something he believes played into the way he reacted on the pitch.
A Red Card and a Raw Message
His afternoon ended early after two dissent bookings in a 2-0 home loss, a moment Sky Sports replayed repeatedly.
Not long afterward, Paquetá jumped into the comments, saying that the outburst people saw was rooted in what he has been carrying behind the scenes.
He wrote that it was “ridiculous” for a player’s career to be overshadowed for two years, especially, he added, without any mental-health backing from the governing body.
He admitted he isn’t perfect but suggested that anyone in his position might have buckled under the same weight.
Two Years of Allegations Finally Behind Him
Paquetá was only cleared earlier this year of accusations that he intentionally sought yellow cards in four separate matches — a case that at one point had the potential to end with a lifetime ban.
Though he was ultimately exonerated, he made it clear that the ordeal has left a mark on him emotionally and professionally.
West Ham’s Boss Calls for a Calm Conversation
After the match, Nuno Espírito Santo avoided stoking the fire.
The West Ham manager said he preferred to speak privately with Paquetá first to understand what’s driving his reactions and frustrations before commenting in detail.
Relief at Last for Liverpool
On the other side, Liverpool manager Arne Slot looked visibly lighter as he discussed finally securing a win after a rough patch.
The Dutchman said “relief” was the overriding emotion, and he made a point of thanking the travelling fans for backing him during a tough spell.
He mentioned how meaningful it was to hear them chanting for him throughout the match — not just after the opening goal, but even at 0-0.
Slot said it showed the strength of the bond between the supporters and the club, noting that it’s easy to cheer when things are going well, but far more powerful when fans stick by the team in difficult moments.
What Comes Next?
Paquetá’s outburst raises fresh questions about the emotional toll high-profile investigations have on players, and whether football’s governing bodies are doing enough to support them.
West Ham will now have to navigate his suspension and whatever fallout comes from his public criticism, while Liverpool hope this win marks the start of a steadier run.
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