Lucas Paqueta shares what influenced him to join West Ham United
Lucas Paqueta has hailed West Ham as an “incredible” club and suggested that the atmosphere around the stadium influenced his decision to join them this summer.
The Hammers faced Lyon in last season’s Europa League clash, and he was completely bowled over by the electrifying atmosphere the fans generated at the London Stadium.
Paqueta is the club record signing for the Hammers, who joined in the summer on a five-year contract.
“After we played West Ham in the Europa League last season, we all said as players what a fantastic stadium it was and how great the fans were and what great energy there was in the place,” said Paqueta to the club’s official website.
“That’s definitely something that influenced my decision as well. Without a doubt, it’s an incredible Club and something that I wanted to experience.
“It was really that desire that everybody at the Club showed in this amazing project they have and the fact they wanted to include me in that really cemented my decision.
“When I arrived here and saw how much confidence everybody and all the fans had in me and how happy they were to see me here, it just makes me want to reward them and pay that back each time I get on the pitch and just to commit myself and devote myself to this Club.”
Big hopes
West Ham have spent big on signing new players this summer to bolster their squad.
The likes of Nayef Aguerd, Thilo Kehrer and Gianluca Scamacca are some of their top signings, but Paqueta is the one who can be called as their marquee signing.
The Hammers needed to bolster their midfield, and Paqueta would provide them the much needed quality and depth in the middle of the park.
The 25-year-old has made two Premier League appearances so far. He started against Chelsea and looked brilliant during the game.
He also featured in the Europa Conference League clash against FCSB.
The Hammers have made a slow start to the season, but they have a strong squad now that can push for a top-four finish. All they need is to get some wins under the belt and build the momentum.
It won’t be easy though, as the likes of Tottenham, Manchester United and Arsenal have also improved this season.
Paqueta could make a huge difference to the side, if he settles down quickly.