For Lucas Paqueta, the last two years have been nothing short of exhausting.
Accused of deliberately getting yellow cards to influence bets, the Brazilian midfielder has been fighting to clear his name—and now, there’s growing optimism that his nightmare might soon be over.
While no official verdict has been announced just yet, West Ham insiders are reportedly hopeful that the Football Association’s lengthy investigation is finally wrapping up—and in Paqueta’s favor.
Potter Urges Support as FA Ruling Remains Unclear
Speaking after West Ham’s pre-season loss to Manchester United in New Jersey, manager Graham Potter didn’t hide his feelings about the midfielder’s situation.
Despite no formal update on the FA’s ruling, Potter stressed that the club must rally around Paqueta.
“I don’t know anything,” Potter said when asked if he’d been briefed on an imminent decision.
“I just know we have to support him. He’s been through a long ordeal, and he’s a big personality in this group.”
This marks Potter’s first full season in charge at West Ham, and it’s clear he’s keen to stand by one of his most high-profile players.
A Career Nearly Lost Over Spot-Fixing Allegations
The FA’s investigation dates all the way back to August 2023, when Mail Sport first broke the story.
At the time, Paqueta’s proposed £80 million transfer to Manchester City was immediately put on hold.
By May 2024, the FA officially charged him with four counts of spot-fixing, tied to yellow cards received in games against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth.
In addition, Paqueta was hit with two charges for allegedly obstructing the FA’s investigation.
If found guilty, the FA was reportedly prepared to recommend a lifetime ban—a devastating blow for a player at the peak of his career.
West Ham Left Frustrated By Long Delay
Understandably, West Ham have been frustrated by how long the case has dragged on.
With the cloud of suspicion hanging over their star midfielder, it’s affected both the club and Paqueta personally.
The yellow card that sparked it all—against Leicester—was issued almost 1,000 days ago, back in November 2022.
And yet, the FA’s decision is still pending.
Sources close to Paqueta say it’s been an emotionally draining experience.
Through it all, he has maintained his innocence and trusted the process, hoping the outcome would eventually reflect the truth.
From Conference League Glory to Legal Battles
Fans will remember Paqueta’s brilliance during West Ham’s 2023 UEFA Conference League win over Fiorentina—particularly his assist that set up Jarrod Bowen’s winning goal in the final.
That victory marked the club’s first major trophy in 43 years, and Paqueta was right at the heart of it.
Interestingly, his manager at the time, David Moyes (now at Everton), reportedly testified in support of Paqueta’s defense during the investigation hearings.
The player was represented by top sports lawyer Nick De Marco KC, and the case wrapped up nearly two months ago.
How the FA Could Judge the Case
One of the major concerns surrounding the investigation has been the burden of proof.
Unlike criminal trials, which require proof “beyond a reasonable doubt,” FA disciplinary proceedings only need evidence that satisfies the balance of probabilities.
That lower bar has worried West Ham and Paqueta’s camp throughout the process.
What Happens Next for Paqueta?
Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon in 2022 for a club-record £51 million and has been a central figure ever since.
If he’s cleared of all wrongdoing, the Hammers will face a big decision: keep him or consider selling?
There’s already interest brewing—Brazilian club Flamengo are reportedly watching closely.
West Ham Remains Tight-Lipped But Hopeful
While club insiders have hinted they’ve heard word of a verdict, they remain officially tight-lipped, neither confirming nor denying that Paqueta has successfully cleared his name.
Still, the mood around the club seems cautiously optimistic.
For now, Paqueta waits—again—but this time, the end may finally be near.
