West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta could learn his fate regarding a suspension from football midway through the 2024/25 season, according to former Everton CEO Keith Wyness.
The Hammers are having such a strong summer in the transfer market, bringing in a number of key signings, from Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo at centre-back to Crysencio Summerville in a wide attacking role.
There is the situation surrounding Paqueta that is proving to be a cloud hanging over the club, however, with the Brazilian charged with breaching betting rules earlier this year.
As of yet, West Ham’s silky midfielder hasn’t been handed a ban from football, meaning he is available at the start of the new Premier League season, but a decision could be made at any point.
Speaking to Football Insider, Wyness claimed that the Brazil international could suffer his fate in the middle of the upcoming campaign, which could disrupt things for Julen Lopetegui.:
“There’s no doubt that West Ham were counting on Paqueta as a big sale at some stage. The unfortunate circumstances that have unfolded mean the value has dropped dramatically.
“The issue probably won’t be resolved until partway through the season. It’s a big asset they now can’t sell on. It’s just human nature in football – there will be frailties, there will be successes, and there will be failures. West Ham are now seeing the impact of a human frailty.”
It is such a sad situation with Paqueta, considering what a great asset he has been for West Ham on the pitch, proving to be such a popular figure with the supporters, with his individual talent and admirable work ethic.
Lopetegui must prepare for the worst when it comes to the 26-year-old, though, planning for life without him, which could easily happen, given the severity of the charges.
For now, West Ham fans have to enjoy Paqueta while they can in the coming weeks and months, not knowing when his last appearance may be. Hopefully, he can help inspire his side to a strong start to life under their new manager, as a new era dawns at the London Stadium.
