The air in East London is thick with uncertainty, and for Lucas Paquetá, the brilliant Brazilian playmaker, it’s become suffocating. A disastrous start to the Premier League season has left West Ham United teetering on the brink, and Paquetá is increasingly convinced his future lies elsewhere.
Just nine league games in, the Hammers find themselves mired in 19th place, a precarious position four points from safety. This isn’t simply a bad run of form; it’s a crisis that threatens to derail Paquetá’s career ambitions, both domestically and on the international stage.
The looming 2026 World Cup adds another layer of pressure. Paquetá understands that a prolonged relegation battle could severely damage his chances of securing a place in Brazil’s squad. He needs consistent, high-level football to remain a contender.
The situation has deteriorated rapidly. A single win in nine league matches has fueled Paquetá’s growing restlessness. He’s a player of exceptional talent, capable of unlocking defenses with his vision and skill, but even his brilliance can’t mask the team’s struggles.
This desire for a fresh start isn’t new. Paquetá was cleared of spot-fixing allegations earlier this year, hoping to put the controversy behind him and refocus on his game. A move to Aston Villa was blocked during the summer, a decision that now feels particularly significant.
West Ham are reportedly considering a valuation of up to £60 million for any potential winter offers. While a substantial fee, it reflects Paquetá’s quality and the current market for proven Premier League players.
Losing a player of Paquetá’s caliber mid-season would be a significant blow to West Ham, potentially destabilizing an already fragile squad. He’s a creative force, a player who can change a game with a moment of magic, and his absence would be keenly felt.
However, the club faces a difficult calculation. The financial benefits of a sale could be tempting, but they must weigh that against the very real risk of weakening their fight for survival. It’s a gamble with potentially devastating consequences.
Paquetá’s motivation isn’t solely about escaping a struggling team. It’s about ambition – the desire to compete at the highest level and represent his country on the world’s biggest stage. He needs an environment where he can thrive, and right now, West Ham simply isn’t providing that.
