West Ham United’s Lucas Paqueta criticizes FA after red card for lack of support during spot-fixing investigation

West Ham United’s Lucas Paqueta has hit out at the Football Association after his sending-off in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Liverpool. He accused the governing body of failing to provide psychological support during an investigation into the situation.

Paqueta was dismissed late in the match at the London Stadium after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession for dissent.

The Brazilian was cleared of four spot-fixing charges earlier this year after a lengthy investigation by the FA.

“It is ridiculous to allow your life and career to be affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation,” Paqueta wrote. X.

«Maybe this ridiculous behavior is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure and, it seems, have to continue to persevere! I’m sorry if I’m not perfect,» he added.

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Paqueta’s post was in response to one Air sports post with footage of the incident with the comment “It’s ridiculous behavior.”

The 28-year-old also posted an apology to teammates and fans, but argued his actions did not warrant a dismissal.

“I understand that I have to look like the bad guy now, it’s hard to live with everything that has been caused in my life and in my psyche,” his translated Portuguese post read.

«I will continue to try to prevent them from influencing me further. This does not justify my expulsion, and for that I apologize to the fans and my teammates,» he added.

Paqueta was cleared on July 31 of charges that he deliberately attempted to receive a booking during four Premier League matches between November 2022 and August 2023 against Leicester City, Aston Villa, Leeds United and Bournemouth.

Paqueta, who was facing a lifetime ban, denied the alleged spot-fixing charges.

Published on December 1, 2025