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West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta’s football career could be in jeopardy if he’s found guilty of betting-related charges, according to finance expert Stefan Borson. Paqueta faces an uncertain future in light of an ongoing investigation by the Football Association (FA), with Borson suggesting that a guilty verdict could effectively end his playing career.
The FA charged Paqueta in May 2024 with six counts of spot-fixing related to yellow cards he received in four Premier League matches. Although the Brazilian international denies the allegations, the charges have sparked widespread controversy and scrutiny around his conduct.
The FA’s investigation has been thorough. Last year, the governing body retained Paqueta’s phone for eight weeks, analyzing his call logs, messages, and bank records. According to The Sun, the FA later requested further access to his phone, though Paqueta reportedly told investigators he could not locate the device.
Borson spoke to Football Insider about Paqueta’s predicament, highlighting the serious consequences he might face. “I’m sure he will have a fair trial. He’s probably very nervous because, clearly, if he loses, it’s going to be very hard for him to play again, certainly in the Premier League. I think that would be basically impossible,” Borson said.
He added that Paqueta’s career could be at risk globally if the allegations hold true. “But he might not play again, period, if he’s done what has been alleged, so you can understand that he’s nervous about it. It’s his entire career,” Borson noted.
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