As reported earlier today, West Ham midfielder Lucas Paquetá is said to be happy about the prospect of remaining at the London Stadium for another season.
Claret & Hugh have spoken to a source close to the Brazilian, who confirmed that the player is grateful for the support he has received from both the club and the fans. It has been a hellish couple of years for the 27 old but there is genuine appreciation from the player over the constant backing from supporters.
Paquetá has looked sharp during West Ham’s pre-season friendlies and is said to be enjoying his football again. The bowed head and dejected demeanour have been replaced with clips of samba dancing with Niclas Fullkrug and he seems a man transformed. Wonderful.
Both the club and the player are still waiting for the formal punishment on his misconduct charges for obstruction from the FA. Paquetá is has been cleared of all major charges relating to his yellow cards and likely to only receive a slap on the wrist and allowed to continue playing football.
Following the club’s announcement earlier this week that they won’t sell their record signing on the cheap, there’s now every chance he will remain in East London. Personally, I’d love to see at least one more season of a player who is amongst the leagues best when he has his full swagger.
And make no mistake—if Paquetá is cleared, motivated to earn a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad, and playing within what seems to be a happy squad under Graham Potter, West Ham could be the real winners.
Paquetá was initially omitted from the Brazil squad when the investigation first broke in 2023. Although Brazil’s federation reinstated him in early 2024. West Ham stuck by him all the way through.