Lucas Paqueta Discusses Potential Future with Flamengo

West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has shared insights regarding his future after his time with the club.

Possible Flamengo Reunion

The Brazilian player revealed that Flamengo had approached him back in May 2024 during a period of turmoil when he was implicated in a betting controversy. The FA charged him with multiple counts of spot-fixing following a lengthy investigation.

However, in a significant turn of events, Paqueta was exonerated of all spot-fixing allegations by an independent regulatory body in July, bringing relief to both him and the club.

The midfielder disclosed that he considered a move to Flamengo but ultimately chose to stay with West Ham due to their unwavering support during a challenging time.

“As soon as I was accused (in 2023), and the whole trial process was about to begin, Braz came to my house, made the offer, and asked what I thought. Obviously, I always want to go back to Flamengo, but at that moment I was still a bit undecided about my decision, about what I was going to do,” Paqueta recounted.

“I also spoke with the West Ham director and stated; ‘Braz, I want to go back. I know I’ll feel good at Flamengo. But I can’t be ungrateful to the club that’s supporting me so much.'”

Desire to Return to His Roots

As speculation regarding his future intensifies, the 28-year-old has articulated his longing to return to his native Brazil and play for Flamengo once again.

“I knew that I could continue playing normally. I felt like returning to Flamengo. Maybe I shouldn’t say this, but I had some conversations with (head coach) Filipe Luis,” he mentioned.

“I always want to return to Flamengo. I believe I’ll be happy there, but I can’t be ungrateful to the club that has supported me so much (West Ham).”

Paqueta has extensively considered the prospect of rejoining Flamengo in the past, but given the club’s backing during difficult times, the decision to remain seemed clear. As he approaches the latter stages of his career, there is a possibility that he might head back home in the coming years.