Lucas Paqueta Opens Up on Impact of Collapsed 385m Transfer

Lucas Paqueta Opens Up on Impact of Collapsed 385m Transfer

West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta has opened up about the emotional strain caused by his 385 million transfer to Man City falling through.

Back in 2023, the 28-year-old looked set to join Pep Guardiola’s side for a fee of 385 million after an impressive first season at West Ham.

All hopes of making the switch were quickly struck down, however, when the Brazilian was accused of spot fixing by the FA.

The FA accused Paqueta of breaching gambling regulations, but he was acquitted in August of this year.

He has since opened up regarding the opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League slipping by.

“Everyone knows that I really had a transfer to City,” he told Globo Esporte. “I probably would have signed the week I received the letter (with the charges).“

Paqueta continued: “Professionally speaking, I lost that, that transfer, a leap in my career. Psychologically, I think that’s where I was most affected, by the fear of this indecision, the uncertainty of my future, despite knowing who I am, what I do, what I’ve done.0

“But, due to the circumstances of the investigations and the way the federation handled everything, it generated fear in us.

“Psychologically, it was difficult for me; I had psychological support to deal with all of this, with some of the problems.0

“But, as I said, understanding the reason for everything, that it was God’s work, being able to share a little of my encounter with Him, being a testimony of faith and resilience, I think that’s what I take away from it, that was my victory.

“I’m happy, much lighter. That fear is behind me. What they said would be three months lasted two years, and I was able to prove my innocence, win this case, and be able to do what I love normally.”