West Ham midfielder Lucas Paquetá erupted in anger after his red card against Liverpool, accusing football authorities of leaving him unsupported during a dark chapter in his career.
The Brazilian posted on X: “It’s ridiculous to have your life and career affected for two years without any psychological support from the federation.”
He added: “Perhaps this ridiculous behaviour is just a reflection of everything I’ve had to endure … I’m sorry if I’m not perfect.”
The fiery response came after the Sky Sports Premier League account labelled his booking as “ridiculous behaviour.”
Lucas Paquetá’s red card came in the 84th minute of West Ham’s 2–0 loss, with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo netting for Liverpool. He received two yellow cards in quick succession for dissent.
Many pundits criticised him, but he defended himself by pointing to an emotional toll few fully recognise. His reaction forced many to reassess what really lies behind that moment.
From spot-fixing scandal to unanswered trauma
Between 2022 and 2023 Paquetá endured a two-year investigation by the FA over alleged spot-fixing linked to suspicious yellow-card bets. He spoke out strongly after clearing his name in July 2025.
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Critics have also referred to multiple bookings in games against Leicester, Aston Villa, Leeds and Bournemouth. An independent regulatory commission ultimately concluded the allegations of intentional card-seeking were not proven.
However, the ordeal cost Paquetá a proposed move to Manchester City — and many insiders admit the emotional pressure never really faded.
Paquetá says the lack of formal psychological support during that period left him vulnerable. He believes the mental strain triggered the breakdown that surfaced during the Liverpool game.
Red card fallout threatens reputation
After his dismissal, Sky Sports cut the clip and judged his conduct unforgivable. The player later apologised to fans and teammates, admitting his anger and guilt. Beyond that, Lucas Paquetá’s red card against Liverpool reopened questions about his future.
Will fans and pundits ever see past this moment? Or will the betting scandal and emotional scar tissue haunt him for years?
Some analysts believe the controversy may still cast a long shadow over his career, regardless of the FA’s verdict.
Tags: Lucas Paqueta red card, Liverpool, West Ham, #WHULIV, #YNWA, #LFC, #WHUFC, #EPL, Premier League.
