FA finds no evidence: Paquetá avoids lifetime ban

Lucas Paquetá’s long-running legal ordeal with the English Football Association (FA) appears to be nearing its conclusion and in a dramatically favorable turn for the player.

According to a report from The Times, the investigation into allegations of spot-fixing brought against the Brazilian midfielder has failed to uncover any evidence of wrongdoing. This paves the way for Paquetá to be formally cleared of all charges and continue his career without the cloud of suspicion that has hung over him for nearly two years.

The case stems from a series of four Premier League matches in which Paquetá, who plays for West Ham United, received yellow cards. The FA alleged that those bookings were not accidental but intentionally orchestrated a form of misconduct referred to as “spot-fixing,” where specific in-game actions are manipulated for betting purposes. At the height of the scandal, the FA was reportedly prepared to seek a lifetime ban from football, a punishment that would have effectively ended the 27-year-old’s career at the elite level.

For months, the case loomed over Paquetá and West Ham, affecting not only his mental state and public reputation but also his professional prospects. At the time the charges were made public, Manchester City had been on the verge of completing a blockbuster transfer for the Brazilian, who had impressed Pep Guardiola’s scouting team with his technical quality, creativity, and versatility. The reigning Premier League champions were reportedly willing to trigger a release clause in the region of €100 million, making Paquetá one of the most expensive signings in their history. However, once the investigation came to light, City backed away from the deal, unwilling to take the risk amid unresolved legal proceedings.

Now, with the FA reportedly unable to produce concrete evidence of deliberate misconduct, Paquetá is expected to be exonerated. Sources close to the matter suggest that the official decision could be announced within days, bringing long-awaited closure to the saga. The expected outcome not only clears the player’s name but also raises serious questions about the FA’s handling of the case including the scale of the accusations, the lack of transparency throughout the process, and the potential consequences of what now appears to have been a baseless investigation.

Legal experts believe that the FA could face financial liability as a result. Paquetá is expected to explore the possibility of suing the governing body to recoup the substantial legal expenses he incurred while defending himself. Estimates suggest those costs could exceed €1 million, factoring in legal teams in both England and Brazil, along with reputational management efforts. There is also speculation that West Ham United could pursue compensation for the financial damage caused by the failed Manchester City transfer.

In the court of public opinion, Paquetá’s name has been through a rollercoaster. Once seen as one of the brightest talents to emerge from Brazil in recent years, his career path had seemed destined for the top. After strong spells with AC Milan and Lyon, his move to the Premier League reignited his form, and he quickly became a central figure in West Ham’s midfield. His blend of flair, vision, and tactical discipline earned him praise from both fans and pundits alike and it was only a matter of time before a bigger club came calling.

The allegations, however, halted that momentum. Even though Paquetá remained a regular starter for West Ham, and the club publicly stood by him, the scrutiny and doubt surrounding his integrity inevitably took a toll. Rumors circulated about broken trust with sponsors and international call-ups. Brazil’s national team coach at the time reportedly held off on selecting him for international duty while the case remained unresolved, a move that may have cost him participation in key matches and tournaments.

Should the expected exoneration be confirmed, Paquetá will likely look to rebuild both his reputation and career trajectory. The prospect of a move to a top-tier club including potentially reopening talks with Manchester City may now be back on the table. City have long admired the midfielder and still seek to bolster their creative midfield options, particularly following Ilkay Gündogan’s departure and uncertainty surrounding Kevin De Bruyne’s long-term fitness.

Meanwhile, West Ham will have a decision to make. Paquetá’s current contract runs for two more years, with an option for a third season. His market value, though somewhat dented by the legal controversy, could rebound quickly now that he’s likely to be cleared. The Hammers may choose to capitalize on renewed interest and negotiate a high-value transfer or alternatively, they could attempt to renew his contract and build their team around him.

In either case, the resolution of the case marks a crucial turning point for all parties involved. For Paquetá, it restores professional dignity and opens the door to new opportunities. For the FA, it brings embarrassment and the likelihood of facing scrutiny over their investigative methods. And for West Ham, it may be the start of a new transfer saga this time, one driven by footballing reasons rather than controversy.