Lucas Paquetá Blames FA in Explosive Social Media Outburst After Red Card Against Liverpool

West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá has launched a fierce attack on the Football Association (FA), claiming his “ridiculous behaviour” on the pitch was a direct consequence of the emotional and psychological strain caused by the governing body’s prolonged investigation into his conduct.

The Brazilian was sent off during West Ham’s recent 2–0 defeat to Liverpool, receiving two yellow cards in quick succession for dissent. The dismissal sparked widespread criticism, prompting Paquetá to break his silence on social media with a candid and highly charged statement.

Paquetá Links Sending-Off to FA’s Handling of Investigation

Responding to a critical post online, Paquetá published a striking message on X, accusing the FA of failing to provide any psychological support throughout what he described as a draining, near two-year ordeal connected to a betting-related probe.

He wrote:

“It’s ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation. Perhaps this ridiculous behaviour is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure and, it seems, have to continue enduring! I’m sorry if I’m not perfect.”

Prior to his public outburst, Paquetá had already issued an apology to West Ham supporters and team-mates, acknowledging that his conduct did not justify his dismissal. However, he emphasised the enormous toll the prolonged investigation has taken on his mental and emotional wellbeing.

FA Investigation Took Heavy Toll on Paquetá’s Career

The controversy stems from an FA investigation launched in August 2023 into alleged breaches of betting regulations. The case placed Paquetá’s future in serious doubt and was widely reported to have derailed a £70 million move to Manchester City.

Although the independent Regulatory Commission ruled earlier this year that four key spot-fixing allegations were not proven, Paquetá was sanctioned for failing to comply with two FA requests for information.

Despite being cleared of the most serious charges, the drawn-out process appears to have left lasting psychological scars. His recent comments suggest the resolution of the case has done little to ease the burden he felt while under scrutiny.

Another Suspension Setback for West Ham

Paquetá’s sending-off against Liverpool came just after he had returned from a one-match suspension, having accumulated five Premier League yellow cards. He missed the 2–2 draw with Bournemouth last weekend as a result.

His latest red card now rules him out of West Ham’s upcoming fixture against Manchester United — another challenging task for David Moyes’ side.