West Ham and Brazil midfielder Lucas Paqueta has been accused of breaching betting rules, according to the Football Association of England (FA). The FA alleges that Paqueta intentionally sought yellow cards in four English Premier League matches during the 2022-23 season to influence the betting market, enabling one or more individuals to profit from bets.
Paqueta has been given until June 3 to respond to the charges. The FA has refrained from commenting further until the investigation concludes.
Paqueta denies the allegations, expressing his surprise and disappointment at the FA's decision. "For nine months, I have cooperated with them at every stage of the investigation and provided all the information possible," he said. Paqueta has vowed to fight the charges to clear his name.
