Paqueta ‘not OK’ and still affected by spot-fixing probe – Nuno

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo claims that West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta is still impacted by the investigation into the allegations of “spot-fixing” him.

The Brazilian was charged in May 2024 with being intentionally booked “for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market,” according to the Football Association’s investigation in August of that year.

In July of this year, an independent regulatory commission gave him his clearance.

After being dismissed for expressing disapproval in Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at home against Liverpool, Paqueta later said his actions were a “reflection of everything I have had to endure.”

If Paqueta was found guilty, the regulatory commission determined that the four charges against him were “not proven.” However, he was subject to a lifetime ban from football.

After failing to follow the investigation, he received reprimands and cautions about how he should act in the future.

Paqueta’s lawyer informed the BBC that the midfielder had “an enormous weight off his chest” and was “very emotional and very delighted” when he was cleared.

Paqueta’s wife has previously claimed that they have “been living this nightmare for two years.”

After debating whether to send a foul against his team with six minutes left, Paqueta quickly received two yellow cards on Sunday.

After collecting five yellow cards in the league, he missed West Ham’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth and now plays his first game back.

Paqueta attributed Sunday’s offending to the recent two-year events, blaming what he claimed was the FA’s lack of psychological support during the investigation.

He continued, “I’m sorry if I’m not perfect.”

Nuno confirmed that after the incident, Paqueta apologized to him and his Hammers teammates.

Nuno responded, “He is not okay.”

He is suffering, upset, and disappointed.

He acknowledges his error and is willing to make improvements. Sometimes people are unaware of the difficulties football players go through.

However, I believe he will get past this predicament.