In January 2019, Lucas Paqueta left Flamengo to launch his career in Europe with AC Milan. A golden opportunity that the Brazilian attacking midfielder ultimately failed to seize. Indeed, it was with Olympique Lyonnais that Paqueta really started his adventure on the Old Continent. With Les Gones, the Auriverde international posted a record of 21 goals and 13 assists in 80 matches, in all competitions.
After two years spent on the banks of the Rhône, Paqueta offered himself a gateway to the Premier League. Recruited by West Ham in exchange for €42 million, the Brazilian was expected to shine in England. Just one year after his arrival at the Hammers, Manchester City and Pep Guardiola thought they would win, but a sports betting affair derailed everything. A hard blow for all parties, including the player who never really recovered. Three and a half years later, the Brazilian will even leave Europe.
A record transfer
At 28, Paqueta is no longer worried about his extra-sporting affair, but Flamengo felt the opportunity to convince the former Lyonnais to return to the country. For its part, West Ham did not put in the pressure to retain him, the Londoners mainly wanting to recover their initial investment. It’s done. After reaching an agreement with the Cariocas, the Hammers agreed to let their player go in exchange for €41 million.
“Lucas Paquetá comes home. He returns to Flamengo. A historic event. A turning point in the global football market, at the height of Flamengo. And this is only possible thanks to the collaboration of many people. Thank you to our sponsors, who invest in Flamengo, believe in this project and helped make this return possible. Thank you to the supporting members, who strengthen the club every day. And above all, thank you to the Rubro-Negra Nation, who encourages, believes and turns dreams into reality. Paquetá is back. The prodigal son returns home. And this moment is also yours”published the club on its social networks. Lucas Paqueta becomes West Ham’s third juiciest sale, behind Mohammed Kudus (€63m) and Declan Rice (€116m) and the most expensive recruit in Flamerngo history.
