English football’s governing body, Football Association (FA), have charged West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta for breaching betting rules.
FA statement confirming the charges reads;
“It’s alleged that he directly sought to influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of, or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting,” said a statement from the FA.
Details of the allegations reveal Paqueta committed the said offenses during West Ham United’s clash against Leicester City in November 2022, including matches against Aston Villa in March 2023, Leeds United in May 2023, and Bournemouth in August 2023.
Reacting to the charges, Paqueta took to his social media handle to issue a strong statement, blasting the FA for wrongful representation.
According to him, he had co-operated with the FA during their investigations against the latter’s claims that he refused to cooperate.
Insisting he is innocent, the Manchester City target added he will do everything within his power to defend himself and prove his innocence.
“I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me.
“For nine months, I have cooperated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can. I deny the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name.
”Due to the ongoing process, I will not be providing any further comment.”
Paqueta has been given until June 3, 2024, to respond to the charges with the case set to be heard by an independent commission.
If found guilty, there are projections he could be slammed with a ban – a punishment that could jeopardize his move to Manchester City.
According to reports, Manchester City had reached an agreement in principle with West Ham on a deal worth £80m for Paqueta but the Pemier League giants could be forced to back off from the move if he faces a ban.
West Ham United have issued statement acknowledging the FA charge but pledge their resolve to stand by the player until the matter is concluded.
“The club acknowledges receipt of the FA charge received by Lucas Paqueta for alleged breaches of their rules,” a spokesperson said.
“Lucas categorically denies the breach and will continue to robustly defend his position.
“The club will continue to stand by and support the player throughout the process and will make no further comment until the matter is concluded,” West Ham club statement reads.
