Lucas Paquetá continues to feel the emotional impact of the long FA spot-fixing investigation — a burden underscored by his red card for dissent — according to a report from GOAL.
According to a report from GOAL, West Ham’s manager Nuno Espirito Santo has admitted that Paquetá is “suffering” after being sent off for dissent in the club’s recent match against Liverpool — an incident the manager links to the psychological toll of the two-year investigation earlier in 2025.
The midfielder was dismissed after receiving two quick yellow cards for dissent late in the game, behaviour he later publicly linked to the mental strain he endured during the probe.
Paquetá wrote on social media: “Perhaps this ridiculous behaviour is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure and, it seems, have to continue enduring!”
Though cleared of the major spot-fixing allegations by an independent commission in July 2025, Paquetá was still sanctioned for failing to fully cooperate with the FA’s inquiry — a judgement that avoided a playing ban but left lasting emotional scars.
With the club acknowledging his fragile state of mind, the episode raises questions about Paquetá’s immediate contribution to the team as he seeks to rebuild his confidence and focus ahead of upcoming fixtures.