West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá has urged the Football Association (FA) to launch an investigation into what he describes as “misleading” leaks surrounding his ongoing betting case. The 27-year-old Brazilian international was charged by the FA in May with misconduct related to alleged breaches of betting regulations.
The allegations suggest that Paquetá deliberately received bookings in four Premier League matches to manipulate the betting market in Brazil. The talented playmaker has staunchly denied all four charges, expressing his “extreme surprise and upset” at the FA’s actions.
In a statement posted on social media, Paquetá voiced his frustrations regarding the “misleading and inaccurate” information being reported, which he believes threatens his chances of a fair hearing.
“I am frustrated and upset to have read recent misleading and inaccurate press articles, published in both England and Brazil, claiming to disclose information about my case,” Paquetá stated. “Some of that information is entirely false and appears designed to undermine my position.”
The Brazilian also expressed concern over the sources of these leaks. “I am also concerned that, although they are false and misleading, these articles are clearly sourced from an individual close to the case,” he remarked. “The FA proceedings are supposed to be confidential, and they are extremely serious for me and my family.”
In response to the situation, Paquetá has instructed his legal team to contact the FA, requesting a thorough investigation into how such information, even if incorrect, has been made public.
Since joining West Ham from Lyon in 2022, Paquetá has made 93 appearances for the club, scoring 15 goals and providing 14 assists. As the case unfolds, the midfielder continues to advocate for transparency and fairness in the process.
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