Lucas Paqueta betting breach timeline shared at West Ham United as ‘disgraceful’ verdict given
The FA have until next week to charge West Ham ace Lucas Paqueta over suspicious betting patterns or they must drop the case, according to Sean Whetstone.
The journalist reported via his West Ham Football account on X on Thursday (9 May) that the FA have not got a single piece of evidence against the Hammers midfielder, suggesting it would be “disgraceful” to charge him.
It is understood that the FA could face a lawsuit if that deadline is not met or if the player is charged without credible evidence.
Paqueta’s situation has already taken effect at the London Stadium, with Manchester City being put off a potential transfer by the betting allegations.
Will the FA charge West Ham United star Lucas Paqueta?
The Brazilian revealed that he was instructed not to speak out about the allegations, but it seems now that he is about to be cleared as the FA struggles to find any evidence.
Whether or not fans are keen for the club to take a significant fee for the Hammers man this season, the situation has caused frustration and difficulties at the London Stadium.
The 26-year-old quickly emerged as a star upon arriving from Lyon in the summer of 2022, quickly racking up 82 appearances and becoming the first name on the teamsheet.
He has, however, dropped in form in recent weeks, especially after the Hammers exited the Europa League, which was followed by a draw and two defeats in the Premier League.
It is understandable if Paqueta is keen on a move away from the London Stadium, especially if a club like Man City are supposedly interested, but the betting allegations have thrown a spanner in the works.
Of course, the FA are unable to charge him without any evidence. It is certainly not a similar case to that of Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, who admitted to having an addiction and was subsequently banned.
Once this case is dropped, all parties can begin to move on and the FA can focus on more pressing issues, especially if there is absolutely no evidence against the Hammers ace.
In other West Ham news, Fabrizio Romano has dropped a new update over Mohammed Kudus’ future amid exit links.
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