Lucas Paqueta sends heartfelt message to Vinicius Junior amid West Ham uncertainty
Lucas Paqueta has sent a heartfelt message to Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior amid ongoing uncertainty over the future of his career and time at West Ham.
West Ham’s struggles under both Julen Lopetegui and Graham Potter eventually saw them finish 14th in the Premier League last season, with Paqueta failing to fire them to success.
The Brazilian international’s on-field talents have been overshadowed by his troubles away from the pitch in recent times, after he was charged with four counts of spot-fixing and two of obstructing an FA investigation [Sky Sports] in May 2024.
The FA are seeking a lifetime ban from football for Paqueta, with a verdict expected to be reached in the coming weeks, but West Ham are confident that the 27-year-old will be cleared of all charges so he can continue playing for the club.
He could leave East London even if the outcome is positive for him and the club, with former scout Mick Brown telling Football Insider on 3 July that the Hammers are preparing to accept offers for Paqueta with Saudi Pro League clubs soon set to bid for his services.
Paqueta sends message for Vinicius Junior’s birthday
Paqueta’s journey to become the player he is today started with Brazilian giants Flamengo, where he featured alongside Real Madrid winger and world superstar Vinicius Junior in their youth sides and at senior level between 2007 and 2018.
Vinicius turned 25-years-old on Saturday, 12 July, and Paqueta took to his Instagram story to send a heartfelt birthday message to his close friend and current international teammate, saying: “Meus parabens irmao, saude, paz, felicidade e muito sucesso! Sigo torcendo muito por voce! Aproveita aiiii seu dia! Te amo e tmj sempre,” which translates to “Congratulations brother, health, peace, happiness and much success! I’m still rooting for you! Enjoy your day! I love you and always will!” in English.
Paqueta could return to previous Hammers form if his charges are cleared
Football Insider verdict
Paqueta looks to be staying in high spirits despite the alleged betting offences that could see him banned from the sport for life, and West Ham should not sell him to a Saudi Pro League side this summer if he is found not guilty, as the weight off his shoulders could see him rediscover his impressive past form.
Paqueta’s mental state has clearly been badly affected by his off-field issues, after he was seen crying on the pitch in a game against Tottenham in May, and so if he can continue to play on without a worry, there is a genuine possibility that he becomes Graham Potter’s go-to man next season.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 120 | 18 | 14 |
The Brazil international’s eight goals and seven assists in 43 games in all competitions in 2023/24 proved that he can be one of the best all-round midfielders in the Premier League at the top of his game, and it is no coincidence that Man City have been interested in Paqueta over the last few years, but have not wanted to make a move due to his charges.
With Mohammed Kudus having recently joined Tottenham, and it would be a real blow for under-pressure boss Potter to lose two of his best creative players this summer, so the Irons must not let Paqueta leave if they can help it in the coming months.