West Ham fans won’t be happy as Lucas Paqueta makes new exit admission – ‘I shouldn’t say this’
Lucas Paqueta admitted he’s exchanged words with Brazilian side Flamengo and “missed” another opportunity for a West Ham exit.
West Ham are in a battle to stay in the Premier League this season, and Nuno Espirito Santo knows just how important Paqueta will be.
The Hammers currently sit 18th in the league after beating Burnley 3-2 last Saturday, and Paqueta seems back to his best in a West Ham shirt.
Paqueta has been linked to Manchester City, among other clubs, in the past and could still leave E20 in January.
The Brazilian has now opened up about speculation surrounding his previous West Ham exit rumours in an all-telling new interview.
Lucas Paqueta resents FA for failed City move and wanted to join Flamengo
The FA conducted a 24-month investigation against Paqueta for alleged spot-fixing and having an influence on betting markets.
Paqueta was severely affected mentally by the allegations, and all charges were dropped against him earlier this year.
The midfielders almost joined City in August 2023, but the FA played a big part in blocking the transfer from happening.
- West Ham had agreed a deal to sell Paqueta to City for £80m
- The deal collapsed on 23 August 2023 after the FA launched an investigation
- Paqueta was seen as City’s replacement for Kevin De Bruyne
West Ham’s star man has opened up on his potential transfer to Man City and explained how he felt like he “missed” the chance to join Pep Guardiola’s side.
Paqueta told Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte: “Everyone knows that I had a transfer to City. I would probably sign it [the contract] the week I received the letter from the English FA. I missed that, this transfer, taking a leap in my career.”
The Brazilian then suggested that he wanted to move back home and play for Flamengo.
Paqueta continued: “The second moment I knew that I could continue playing normally. I felt like returning to Flamengo. Maybe I shouldn’t say this, but I had some conversations with [head coach] Filipe Luis.
“I always want to go back to Flamengo. I know I’ll feel good at Flamengo, but I can’t be ungrateful to the club that is supporting me a lot [West Ham].”
Paqueta exit is now best for all parties at West Ham
Paqueta has had many memorable moments for West Ham, including his celebration after the Hammers’ 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest this season, which indicated he was staying at E20.
The attacking midfielder has now racked up 132 appearances for the Hammers, but he may need to be sold in January to raise funds.
Not only that, Paqueta’s comments suggest that he has wanted a West Ham exit on several occasions, and it’s hard to tell if Nuno will be able to trust him in a relegation battle.
The Irons need all of their players to be committed, and if Paqueta expresses his desire to leave in the winter, then his request should be granted.
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