West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta is facing the possibility of an extended ban after an emotional outburst on social media platform X, following his sending-off during the club's 2-0 Premier League defeat to Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.
The Incident That Sparked the Controversy
The match at the London Stadium took a dramatic turn for the worse for the Hammers when Lucas Paqueta was shown a red card by referee Darren England with just over ten minutes of normal time remaining. The dismissal occurred after the Brazilian international received two quick yellow cards for dissent.
The situation erupted when a foul was given against Paqueta's teammate, Niclas Fullkrug. Despite attempts from fellow players, including Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, to calm him down, Paqueta directed his fury at the match official. He failed to control his temper and was consequently sent off, sarcastically applauding the decision as he left the pitch.
Paqueta's Emotional Social Media Response
Following the match and facing criticism online for his needless sending-off, Paqueta took to social media to break his silence. His statement on X referenced the prolonged and stressful FA investigation into spot-fixing charges that had hung over him for two years.
"It's ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation," Paqueta wrote. "Perhaps this ridiculous behaviour is just a reflection of everything I've had to endure and, it seems, have to continue enduring! I'm sorry if I'm not perfect."
This public criticism of the football authorities could now lead to further disciplinary action from the FA, potentially extending his automatic one-match suspension.
Context and Consequences for West Ham
The red card proved disastrous for West Ham's chances in the match. The team had been showing positive signs after going 1-0 down to a goal from Liverpool's Alexander Isak, which was his first for the Reds since his deadline-day move from Newcastle. However, Paqueta's dismissal took the wind out of their sails, and Cody Gakpo sealed the victory for Liverpool with a second goal in stoppage time.
This incident is particularly frustrating for West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo, as Paqueta had only just returned from a one-game suspension for accumulating five yellow cards this campaign. His absence was felt immediately, as he will now miss the crucial midweek trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United.
Fortunately for the Hammers, because the red card was for two bookable offences and not a straight red, Paqueta should be available again for the weekend fixture against Brighton, unless the FA decides to take further action regarding his social media comments.
