Lucas Paqueta intends to file a lawsuit against the FA following the collapse of his betting case.

Brazilian Footballer Lucas Paqueta Plans Multi-Million-Pound Claim Against FA

Lucas Paqueta, the West Ham midfielder, is considering legal action against the English Football Association (FA) for a multi-million-pound claim, seeking compensation following an investigation that derailed a planned move to Manchester City and impacted his career and reputation.

The investigation, one of the biggest in recent soccer history, centred around allegations that Paqueta was involved in spot-fixing in Premier League games to benefit betting markets in Brazil. However, an independent panel cleared him of any wrongdoing in a 314-page ruling.

The FA's spending on costs related to the case cannot be recovered, with the organisation already spending £1.5 million. If Paqueta wins his claim, the FA might face a larger financial hit, potentially reaching several million British pounds when considering lost transfer value and wages. The transfer to Manchester City would have been worth approximately GBP 80-100 million, and Paqueta would have received a weekly salary of over GBP 200,000.

Paqueta's representatives claim that the lost earnings, legal costs, and damage to his reputation total damages in the tens of millions. The investigation and its aftermath have negatively impacted his reputation worldwide.

The FA has been criticised for relying too heavily on their own staff and advisors in the investigation, and for not conducting their own check of the bookings. The panel criticised this approach, stating that it was "surprising" and "flawed."

David Moyes, former West Ham manager, and Mark Clattenburg, a former referee, both stated that the warnings in question seemed normal for the player, helping his case. Paqueta remained at West Ham instead of joining Manchester City, and faced the possibility of never playing again due to the investigation.

Paqueta's name was questioned, but the independent panel found no evidence to support the allegations against him. Despite this, he still faces minor punishments for not helping investigators, which might lead to a fine but no ban from playing.

Alistair Campbell, Paqueta's lawyer, states that the player is considering legal action, but will not file immediately. The FA has not yet commented on the potential claim.

Lucas Paqueta intends to file a lawsuit against the FA following the collapse of his betting case.