West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has launched a stunning public attack on the Football Association, claiming the governing body abandoned him by failing to offer psychological support during a protracted investigation into his conduct.
The Incident and Immediate Fallout
The Brazil international's outburst came after he was sent off in the closing stages of West Ham's 2-0 defeat by Liverpool on Sunday 30 November 2025. Referee Darren England showed Paqueta two quick-fire yellow cards for dissent, resulting in a red card that left the Hammers with ten men.
Taking to social media platform X, the 28-year-old expressed deep frustration, apologising to fans and teammates for his dismissal while simultaneously turning his fire on the FA. "I understand that now I have to come across as the villain; it’s hard to live with everything that’s been caused in my life and in my psyche!" Paqueta wrote.
A Deeper Grievance Revealed
This incident is not an isolated one for the midfielder. Paqueta's emotional state appears deeply connected to a two-year FA investigation into spot-fixing allegations, which only concluded in July. He was accused of deliberately receiving yellow cards for betting purposes, charges of which he was ultimately cleared.
The lengthy probe had significant professional consequences, notably scuppering a potential transfer to Manchester City two summers ago. Responding to a Sky Sports post where co-commentator Rob Green described his red card as "ridiculous behaviour", Paqueta delivered his most pointed criticism.
"It’s ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation," he stated. "Perhaps this ridiculous behaviour is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure and, it seems, have to continue enduring!"
Club Response and What Happens Next
West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed he would address the matter privately with the player before making any public judgement. Reflecting on the match itself, Santo acknowledged the difficulty of facing a team like Liverpool with a numerical disadvantage.
"I will not go much further on comments of the situation. I hope you understand," Santo stated. "Just allow me to speak with Lucas first and try to understand. I want to have a private conversation, to try to understand. I think it’s unfair not to make any kind of comment without a chance to speak with him."
The Football Association has been approached for comment regarding Paqueta's serious claims about the lack of mental health support during their investigation. This situation places a spotlight on the duty of care sporting bodies have towards players during disciplinary processes.
