Lucas Paquetá was once a frontrunner for West Ham‘s player of the season award, his creativity fueling their European aspirations under David Moyes. However, concerns have emerged about his focus ahead of their crucial clash against Chelsea.
A petulant early yellow card against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League last month resulted in Paquetá missing the second leg, a crucial match for West Ham. This avoidable action sparked questions about his frustration with Moyes’ pragmatic style.
Paquetá‘s underwhelming displays against Liverpool, Fulham, and Crystal Palace further fueled doubts. Despite potential interest from Manchester City this summer, his recent commitment to West Ham seems lacking.
Regardless of his potential future, Paquetá has a responsibility to perform for his current employers. This starts against Chelsea, who have leapfrogged West Ham in the table.
West Ham needs a focused and motivated Paquetá to overcome Chelsea. Can he put his recent struggles behind him and deliver a performance worthy of his talent?
“Can he put his recent struggles behind him and deliver a performance worthy of his talent?”
I think he can. But will he feel like it? I doubt it unless Moyes puts us out to attack. And I doubt that too!