Lucas Paquetá, embroiled in a months-long trial in England, will be acquitted of charges of involvement in a soccer betting scheme. The information was published this Friday (25) by the British newspaper The Times, which also revealed that the Football Association (FA) will be held responsible for West Ham’s legal expenses, potentially paying up to £1 million (R$7.4 million).
The decision was made by an independent regulatory commission, responsible for investigating the case alongside the FA. The official announcement of the acquittal is expected next week. Lucas Paquetá’s trial has been ongoing for almost two years.
LONG PROCESS AND PRESSURE FOR RESOLUTION
Since being charged, Paquetá has consistently maintained his innocence and cooperated with the investigation. The case revolved around yellow cards he received during West Ham matches, which allegedly served as the basis for manipulated bets.
If found guilty, the 27-year-old risked a ban from English football, which caused a strong emotional impact and uncertainty about the future of his career. With the delay in the outcome, pressure for a resolution increased behind the scenes in British football—both for the player and the club. Now, with the imminent acquittal, Paquetá will be able to continue his career in the Premier League.
FLAMENGO MONITORING, BUT NEW REINFORCEMENTS COULD CHANGE THE SCENARIO
The news of the acquittal reignites rumors of a possible return to Flamengo, where Paquetá was born. Despite the interest, the Rio de Janeiro club has already signed Saúl Ñíguez and is in negotiations with Jorge Carrascal, which could directly impact a potential move.
Paquetá is on vacation, like the rest of the West Ham squad. He finished the European season alternating between starting and the bench, appearing in three of the last four games. Manchester City had already shown interest in signing him before the process began and could return to the fray to secure his services.
