West Ham United has taken a public swipe at both the Football Association (FA) and Lucas Paqueta as the Brazilian midfielder bids farewell to the club, pleading for understanding and forgiveness from fans. The transfer saga concluded with Paqueta’s move back to Flamengo, his boyhood club, for a fee reportedly around £38.5 million, as confirmed by West Ham and first reported by Hammers News.
The announcement comes after weeks of intense negotiation and speculation, culminating in an agreement that sees Flamengo paying the transfer fee over 24 months. The deal was finalized despite West Ham’s reluctance, as Paqueta expressed a strong desire to return to Brazil due to personal reasons linked to the FA’s prolonged investigation into spot-fixing allegations against him.
West Ham’s Frustration with the FA
In a rare and pointed statement, West Ham suggested that the FA’s handling of the case significantly impacted Paqueta’s mental health, leading to his decision to leave. The club expressed gratitude towards its management, players, staff, and supporters for their unwavering support during the ordeal but notably omitted any direct thanks to Paqueta himself.
According to sources close to the club, the drawn-out nature of the FA’s investigation, which concluded with Paqueta being cleared of misconduct charges in July 2025, placed a considerable strain on the player and his family. The club’s statement hinted at frustration over the time taken to resolve the matter, implying it played a role in Paqueta’s determination to return home.
Paqueta’s Emotional Farewell
In his farewell message, Paqueta addressed West Ham fans directly, acknowledging that some may feel disappointed by his departure. He emphasized that his decision was not influenced by the club’s current relegation battle but was driven by a need to prioritize his mental health and family well-being.
“Some scars I’ll carry for the rest of my life, and one made me realise I can’t keep fighting against something that’s no longer for me,” Paqueta stated in a heartfelt video message. “I need to find joy in football again, and regain my peace.”
Paqueta’s message was accompanied by a montage of his highlights at West Ham, underscoring his appreciation for the club and its supporters. He reiterated that his choice to leave was not due to a lack of offers from European clubs but a personal decision to seek solace in Brazil.
Implications for West Ham and the FA
The move represents a significant shift for West Ham, which now faces the challenge of filling the void left by one of its key players. The club’s public criticism of the FA also highlights ongoing tensions between football clubs and governing bodies over the handling of disciplinary cases.
Meanwhile, the FA’s role in the saga may prompt further scrutiny of its processes and timelines for resolving such cases. The impact of prolonged investigations on players’ mental health and career decisions is likely to be a topic of discussion among football stakeholders.
As West Ham looks to the future, the club will need to navigate the transfer market strategically to bolster its squad amid the ongoing relegation battle. The departure of Paqueta, one of its most talented players, underscores the importance of maintaining a stable and supportive environment for players facing external pressures.
Looking Ahead
For Lucas Paqueta, the return to Flamengo marks a new chapter in his career, offering a chance to reconnect with his roots and rediscover his passion for the game. His departure from West Ham, however, leaves behind a complex legacy, intertwined with both triumphs and challenges.
As the dust settles on this high-profile transfer, both West Ham and Paqueta will be looking to move forward, albeit in different directions. The saga serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics at play in modern football, where personal, professional, and institutional factors often collide.
