West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta may have jeopardized his chances of joining Manchester City after a recent social media post.
Last summer, West Ham had planned their squad rebuild with the expectation of receiving £85 million from Paqueta’s potential transfer to City. The two clubs had an agreement in place to activate Paqueta’s £85 million release clause. However, the move collapsed when an investigation was launched into Paqueta’s alleged involvement in illegal betting over yellow cards—a claim he strongly denies.
This sudden investigation halted the transfer and impacted West Ham’s summer plans. Both manager David Moyes and vice-chair Karren Brady later confirmed that they had intended to sign Cole Palmer from City for £40 million, a plan derailed by Paqueta’s situation.
Earlier in the year, journalist Graeme Bailey reported that City were “more determined than ever” to pursue the Brazilian midfielder, especially as there were rumors the case might be dropped. Some West Ham fans had warmed to the idea of selling Paqueta due to his poor form in 2024, and Pep Guardiola was reportedly still interested if Paqueta is cleared by a three-person panel in March. This potential interest is heightened by speculation that City stars Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne could leave next summer.
However, Paqueta may have strained relations with City by posting a 57-word statement on social media expressing strong support for his best friend, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior. When Man City’s Rodri recently won the Ballon d’Or, Vinicius posted his reaction on social media, implying dissatisfaction with the decision. Paqueta, a close friend of Vinicius from their time at Flamengo, followed with a post on Instagram: “Just so you know, I’m proud to say I’m your friend. I admire you and root for you more than any victory of mine!” He continued, “You are the greatest! Even if they say otherwise!” alongside a picture of the two in their Flamengo jerseys.
The post could lead to awkwardness should Paqueta eventually join City, especially given his support for Vinicius amid Real Madrid’s public discontent with the Ballon d’Or results. Meanwhile, West Ham teammate Tomas Soucek shared his own perspective, showing his support for Rodri on Instagram.
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