Lucas Paqueta Bio

Lucas Paqueta is a Brazilian central midfielder signed by West Ham manager David Moyes at the beginning of the 2022/23 season.

Paqueta move saw the Hammer in Central midfield

“Supershow” | Paqueta Puts Club Form Behind Him With Brazil

Lucas Paquetá set up Brazil’s crucial goal as they secured a 1-0 victory over Ecuador, getting their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign back on track Friday night. The West Ham midfielder has had an inconsistent start to the season, showing glimpses of his talent, including a penalty against Aston Villa in the Premier League […]

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“Waiting Game” | City’s Paqueta Confidence is Growing

The Lucas Paqueta transfer saga has been a significant talking point for West Ham United. The club’s initial agreement with Manchester City fell through due to allegations of illegal betting activity, leading to a missed opportunity for a substantial transfer fee. Karren Brady recently confirmed West Ham were on the verge of signing Cole Palmer […]

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Lopetegui’s Shrewd Paquetá Insurance

Imagine for a minute that the player you have built your team around, the ‘playmaker’ and creative maestro of the team suddenly gets slapped with a ten – year ban for illegal betting. However much we as fans want to stay in denial or wax lyrical about lack of evidence, nobody can be sure about […]

“Smart Move” | Soler Transfer as Paqueta D-Day Looms

West Ham’s decision to chase PSG’s Carlos Soler makes absolute sense. The transfer window has been so busy and exciting that it has overshadowed Lucas Paquetá’s pending FA investigation. Whilst the Hammers have received encouraging news that the Brazilian playmaker will be available for at least half of this season, it would be unwise for […]

Hammers Incredible Frontline | Poised to Thrive

West Ham’s attack is beginning to take on a menacing look, but it was last season’s stars who stole the show against Celta Vigo. Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paquetá, and Mohammed Kudus all performed exceptionally well last season under David Moyes, so it was no surprise to see them click immediately under Julen Lopetegui. However, the […]

West Ham signed Paqueta for £50m from French side Lyon, but the transfer was completed very late in the transfer window due to the managers failed attempts to sign Jesse Lingard from Manchester United. The transfer fee eclipsed The Hammers previous transfer record of £42m for striker Sebastien Haller.

Paquetá initially struggled to settle into the West Ham team, although it is probably fair to say the whole club was probably suffering a hangover from reaching the semi finals of the Europa League the previous season.

Lucas Paqueta

It wasn’t until November at the Qatar World Cup that West Ham fans were truly able to see the very best of Lucas Paqueta, who was outstanding for Brazil. Once he returned, the teams form improved and the player started to display some of his obvious technical ability.

Towards the end of the 2022/23 season, Paqueta had started to form an excellent partnership with then captain Declan Rice. West Ham’s Premier League and Europa Conference League form began to improve and Paquetá was instrumental.

Lucas Paqueta’s full name is Lucas Tolentino Coelho de Lima, he was born in 1997 and began his career at Brazilian club Flamengo.

Paqueta build up quite a reputation in South America which alerted a host of big European clubs. In January 2019 he was sold to AC Milan for a reported €35m, but he struggled to replicate his Flamengo form despite his obvious talent.

Just 18 months later Paqueta was sold to Lyon for €20 million on a five-year contract, where he regained his form and earned a big money move to West Ham.

Lucas Paquetá

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Lucas Tolentino Coelho de Lima, known professionally as Lucas Paquetá, was born on August 27, 1997, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Growing up in the vibrant city of Rio, Paquetá’s football talents were evident from a young age. He joined the youth ranks of Flamengo at the age of 10, where he quickly rose through the levels due to his technical skills and understanding of the game.

Flamengo Career

Paquetá made his professional debut for Flamengo in March 2016, during a Primeira Liga match against Confiança. His breakout season came in 2018, where he played a crucial role in Flamengo’s campaign in the Brazilian Serie A and the Copa Libertadores. His performances as an attacking midfielder, characterized by his creativity, agility, and goal-scoring ability, caught the attention of top European clubs. During his time at Flamengo, Paquetá scored 13 goals in 65 appearances, significantly contributing to the team’s successes.

Move to Europe

In January 2019, Paquetá transferred to AC Milan in a deal worth €35 million, marking the start of his European career. At Milan, he was seen as a potential key playmaker, wearing the iconic number 39 jersey. His time in Italy had highs and lows; he showed flashes of brilliance with his technical dribbling and vision but struggled with consistency in Serie A’s tactical environment.

Lyon and Development

In September 2020, Paquetá moved to Olympique Lyonnais in Ligue 1, where he found a more consistent form. His ability to adapt and influence games in the midfield was more pronounced in France, where he became known for his work rate, offensive capabilities, and versatility in playing multiple midfield roles. At Lyon, he enhanced his reputation as a dynamic midfielder, contributing both goals and assists.

Arrival at West Ham United

In August 2022, Lucas Paquetá signed with West Ham United, bringing his talents to the Premier League. His arrival was seen as a significant acquisition for the Hammers, expected to add creativity and skill to their midfield setup. Paquetá’s performances have been marked by his characteristic flair, technical skill, and ability to adapt to the physicality of English football.

International Career

Paquetá has been a regular for the Brazil national team since his debut in 2018. He played in the 2019 Copa América, where Brazil won the title, and has been pivotal in various international fixtures, contributing with key goals and assists. His style fits well with Brazil’s rich tradition of skillful, attacking football.

Playing Style

Lucas Paquetá is known for his technical ability, particularly his dribbling, passing, and knack for scoring goals from midfield. His flair and creativity make him a valuable asset in attacking transitions, while his work ethic allows him to contribute defensively as well.

Personal Life

Off the field, Paquetá is known for his joyful personality and deep family ties. He is married and has children, and he often shares moments from his personal life with fans on social media, reflecting his grounded and family-oriented nature.

Conclusion

Lucas Paquetá continues to be a significant figure in football, known for his versatile midfield play and the samba style that he brings to Europe. As he matures in the Premier League with West Ham, his impact on and off the pitch is expected to grow, marking him as one of the key Brazilian talents in the modern game.