Published: 11:32, 19 Aug 2023
Lucas Paquetá is under scrutiny by the English Football Association (FA) and the global football governing body FIFA. An investigation has been initiated into the Manchester City midfielder, who is suspected of violating gambling regulations. Due to the investigation, he has already been withdrawn from the Brazilian national team selection.
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Paquetá had been called up for the upcoming international matches for Brazil against Bolivia and Peru, but interim coach Fernando Diniz has removed the technician's name from his list. 'He is a player I have great affection for, but he needs time to address these issues,' Diniz is quoted as saying. He is referring to the investigation initiated by the FA and FIFA.
The investigation is said to be focused on bets placed in Brazil on yellow cards received by Paquetá during the past season. He was shown the yellow card a total of nine times while playing for West Ham and the national team. Sky Sports reports that Paquetá denies placing any bets himself and is shocked by the reports.
BBC has unsuccessfully reached out to West Ham for a response.
The 25-year-old Paquetá made the move from Olympique Lyon to West Ham last year. He has attracted strong interest from Manchester City, who have unsuccessfully bid for the 42-time Brazilian international. Whether City will continue their pursuit now that Paquetá faces the possibility of a months-long suspension remains to be seen.
Updated: 11:33, 19 Aug 2023
