Embattled West Ham star Lucas Paqueta could risk a lengthy ban from football if he is found guilty of the FA’s betting charge.
On Thursday, May 25, the FA issued a four-count charge against Paqueta accusing him sport-fixing.
The FA’s statement asserts that Paqueta deliberately received bookings on four occasions during English top-flight matches. Additionally, the FA claims that the Brazil international failed to cooperate during investigation into the allegations.
Paqueta responded to the charges by criticizing the FA for what he called baseless accusations, denying that he was uncooperative and maintaining his innocence.
“I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me,” Paqueta said in a statement on social media. “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.”
West Ham United, Paqueta’s current club, has also issued a statement expressing their support for the player and asserting his innocence.
Futballnews understands West Ham had agreed in principle to sell Lucas Paqueta to Manchester City for £80 million, a transfer that could be jeopardized by the betting charges.
According to The Mail, Paqueta could face a ban of up to 10 years from football if found guilty, similar to the 10-year ban handed to former Reading defender Kynan Isaac in 2021 for sport-fixing.
Paqueta has until June 3, 2024, to present his defense before an independent commission begins proceedings.
