“Unbelievable News: Lucas Paquetá to MISS Crucial West Ham Match as Investigation Verdict Approaches!
Lucas Paquetá will miss West Ham United’s match against Leicester City on December 3rd to appear before the Brazilian parliament, according to The Standard.
The outlet reported on November 1st that Paquetá is scheduled to testify before the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry (CPI) as part of an investigation into four counts of alleged spot-fixing. Although he was initially set to provide evidence in São Paulo this week, the CPI has postponed his appearance until December, forcing him to miss the trip to the King Power Stadium as he awaits the outcome of the investigation.
Paquetá has consistently denied the spot-fixing allegations since the FA charged him in May. Despite his denials, the investigation has tarnished his reputation and had a significant impact on both him and the club. The 27-year-old will not present his case to the FA until March next year, allowing him to complete the 2024/25 season before a decision is reached.
The burden of the charges has clearly affected his performance this season, with some accusing him of appearing “disinterested” on the pitch. Given the gravity of the situation, it’s understandable that his focus may be elsewhere.
Julen Lopetegui, against his better judgment, started Paquetá in the 2-1 victory over Manchester United, a choice that may have backfired as Paquetá struggled and was substituted at halftime.
With ongoing CPI and FA proceedings, West Ham fans might find it difficult to grasp the implications for Paquetá. Lopetegui now faces a challenging decision regarding his troubled star. An extended absence from the squad could be just what Paquetá needs to regain his focus.
In other news, Paul Merson has shared his prediction for West Ham’s upcoming match against Nottingham Forest.
