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West Ham United manager Graham Potter said the Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta is committed to the club, even after facing spot-fixing charges and being cleared of them. The Brazilian star was charged with breaching the FA rule E5 in 2023. During the media conference, Potter shared his optimistic thoughts about Paqueta's situation; however, he noted that things can change during the transfer process.
"You never know for sure because anything can happen in the window with anybody. But the news is incredibly positive," remarked Graham Potter. He emphasised Paqueta's importance to the team and his happiness at West Ham. The 27-year-old midfielder had been facing a ban on playing any football game during the spot-fixing case. During the investigation, there were heavy speculations of him moving to Manchester City. But Potter is quite confident and mentioned how important Paqueta is for the club. "Lucas is happy and committed. He is an important person in the dressing room and at the club and we love him. We just want to help him enjoy his football," he said.
Paqueta played 33 Premier League games last season for West Ham United, scoring four goals against an expected tally of 5.3 (xG). While he didn’t register any assists, he still fashioned 36 chances, which is second only to skipper Jarrod Bowen’s 51, which led to him reportedly attracting interest from Manchester City.
West Ham sign Callum Wilson as a free agent to strengthen their attack
During the transfer window, West Ham wanted to strengthen their attacking area and signed Callum Wilson as a free agent after he left Newcastle United. Meanwhile, Michail Antonio’s future at the club remains in doubt. During the media briefing, when asked whether Antonio figured in his plans for the 2025–26 campaign, Potter bluntly responded, “No.” Although no final decision has been made, with the striker’s contract having expired in July, the club emphasised that their priority is to support him.
Meanwhile, Paqueta is pushing him to remain focused on his football career. His overall commitment towards the game is vital for the club as West Ham is preparing for the upcoming challenges in domestic games. Moreover, Paqueta has two more years remaining in his contract with the East London club.
