Midfielder Lucas Paquetá, currently called up for the Brazilian team’s friendlies against England and Spain, addressed in a press conference this Wednesday (20) the investigation conducted by the English Football Federation (FA), which is investigating his alleged involvement in a sports betting scheme.
This suspicion resulted in Paquetá’s absence from the squads made the previous year, under the management of then interim coach Fernando Diniz, predecessor of current coach Dorival Júnior.
“It has been seven months since the incident and I am cooperating as much as possible with the investigations”, declared Paquetá during the press conference held in London.
According to information from Reuters, a body monitoring suspicious activities related to betting highlighted the occurrence of irregularities involving yellow cards received by Paquetá during games in the 2022/2023 Premier League season.
Although the FA investigations were revealed on August 18, Lucas Paquetá continued to be selected as a starter for West Ham.
“These are moments that happen. I’ve been dedicating myself to my work at the club, having fun. I try not to allow this to affect my performance on the field,” said the 26-year-old player.
Revealed in Flamengo’s youth categories, Paquetá had Dorival Júnior as coach during his time at the Rio club in 2019. The player expressed his satisfaction in returning to the national team.
“I’m happy with the call-up, it’s recognition of my work. Wearing the national team’s shirt has always been my dream, as is every child’s dream. Returning to it makes me feel even more privileged”, admitted the player.
Brazilian national team friendlies
The scheduled match against England will be this Saturday (23) at 4pm (Brasília time) at Wembley Stadium. This game marks Dorival Júnior’s debut as coach of the national team.
Three days later, Brazil will face Spain, at 5:30 pm, in Madrid. These matches serve as preparation for the Copa América, scheduled for June in the United States.
At the end of 2023, the Brazilian team was in sixth place, accumulating seven points in the South American Qualifiers, which represents the last qualifying position for the 2026 World Cup.
Finally, under the command of interim coach Fernando Diniz, the team recorded two wins, one draw and three defeats.
