What a relief: Paqueta clear of betting charges

After almost two years, Lucas Paqueta’s nightmare is over - an independent Regulatory Commission has cleared the Brazilian midfielder of misconduct charges made against him by the Football Association for alleged breaches of FA rule E5. The FA started their investigation in August 2023 and the Brazil international was charged in May last year for allegedly getting booked deliberately "for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market". The games in question were Premier League matches against Leicester (2022), Aston Villa (2023), Leeds (2023) and Bournemouth (2023). Paqueta received a yellow card in all of there games and it was claimed that this was done in purpose.

FA wants lifetime ban for Paqueta

Paqueta was facing the prospect of a lifetime ban if found guilty and was distracted for much of last season. His possible transfer to Manchester City worth around 85 million pounds was halted in August 2023 as the investigation started. The Brazilian stayed in West Ham.

“Since the first day of this investigation, I have maintained my innocence against these extremely serious accusations. I can’t say anything more at this time, but I would like to express how grateful I am to God and how eager I am to return to playing football with a smile on my face. To my wife who never let go of my hand, to West Ham United, to the fans who always cheered me on, and to my family, friends and the legal team who have supported me – thank you for everything” said the Brazilian to club’s website.