West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá has launched a stunning verbal attack on football's governing bodies, accusing them of a complete lack of support following his sending-off during the 2-0 defeat to Liverpool.
The Incident and Immediate Fallout
The Brazil international was shown two yellow cards in quick succession by referee Darren England for dissent during the Premier League clash at the London Stadium. This dismissal came against the backdrop of a recently concluded Football Association investigation into spot-fixing allegations that had overshadowed the player's career for two years.
Paquetá was accused of deliberately getting booked for betting purposes, a case that was only cleared in July. The lengthy proceedings reportedly cost him a high-profile transfer to Manchester City two summers ago.
Paquetá's Emotional Social Media Outburst
Taking to social media platform X after the match, the 28-year-old delivered an emotional statement criticising the football authorities for their failure to provide psychological support throughout his ordeal.
He wrote: "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! I'll keep trying to ensure they don't affect me even more. This doesn't justify my expulsion, and for that I apologise to the fans and my teammates!"
Responding directly to coverage from Sky Sports Premier League, where co-commentator Rob Green described his red card as "ridiculous behaviour", Paquetá added: "It's ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation."
"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," he concluded.
Manager's Response and FA Silence
West Ham's head coach, Nuno Espírito Santo, addressed the incident in his post-match comments, indicating he would speak privately with the player before making any definitive judgements.
"It's hard to play against a team like Liverpool with one man less," Nuno stated. "I will not go much further on comments of the situation. I hope you understand. 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 Paquetá's serious allegations about the lack of support during the investigation.
