Brazilian star Lucas Paquetá, recently cleared of spot-fixing allegations, is weighing a lawsuit against England’s Football Association (FA) to recover more than £1 million (US$1.3 million) in legal expenses — and potentially tens of millions more in lost earnings.
The 28-year-old West Ham midfielder endured a two-year investigation into claims he deliberately sought yellow cards to influence betting markets. The unprecedented charges carried the threat of a lifetime ban from soccer.
Paquetá’s reputation and career suffered significantly. A planned £80 million (US$107 million) transfer to Manchester City in the summer of 2023 collapsed when the probe became public. That deal would have earned him over £200,000 (US$270,000) a week, with the total package — including bonuses — valued in the tens of millions. Instead, he played the entire 2023–24 season for West Ham under the cloud of a potential life ban.
Damages and Fallout
Paquetá’s immediate claim is expected to seek £1 million to £1.5 million (US$1.3–$2 million) in legal costs, according to The Guardian. Broader damages linked to the failed City move could follow. The FA has already written off about £1 million in unrecoverable expenses and could face exposure of around £3 million (US$4 million) if Paquetá’s action succeeds.
The midfielder was accused of intentionally collecting yellow cards in four Premier League matches during the 2022–23 season, with the FA citing 253 suspicious bets tied to £47,000 ($63,000) staked and £167,000 (US$224,000) won.
But an independent commission dismissed the charges, ruling that the betting patterns did not amount to proof of spot-fixing. Its 314-page decision sharply criticized the FA’s handling of the case, citing contradictions between investigators and prosecutors, lack of independent review of betting evidence, and no incriminating material on Paquetá’s devices. The panel described elements of the FA’s approach as “surprising,” “concerning,” and “an obvious flaw.”
Support from Inside the Game
Paquetá’s defense was strengthened by testimony from figures within the sport. Former West Ham manager David Moyes told the panel that the cautions reflected the midfielder’s typical play, while ex-referee Mark Clattenburg described the bookings as “ordinary.”
Lesser Breaches
Although cleared of the main charges, Paquetá was found guilty of two minor violations for failing to fully cooperate with investigators. He is expected to face a fine but avoid suspension.
The FA has confirmed it will not appeal the acquittal. West Ham, meanwhile, has no plans to pursue its own claim against the governing body. Paquetá, however, remains determined to seek accountability after what he views as a major blow to his career and reputation.
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