Lucas Paquetá’s wife recalls betting probe and lost Manchester City dream | OneFootball

Lucas Paquetá’s wife has recalled the turmoil of his betting investigation, saying he lost his dream move to Manchester City.

According to Coluna Do Fla, Duda Fournier said the saga hit him hard and that few, even those closest, could truly understand what they endured each day.

In May 2024, the FA accused Paquetá of breaching betting rules. A report alleged he manipulated outcomes in four Premier League matches.

The FA sought a ban. The Regulatory Commission found there was insufficient evidence. Announced on 31 July 2025, the decision closed the case and he returned to play.

During the probe, West Ham had agreed his switch to Manchester City, but City pulled out amid the controversy and the risk of a ban.

After he was cleared, Paquetá did not feel comfortable staying in English football and asked to rejoin Flamengo. The club brought him back at the start of this year.

Flamengo paid 42 million euros, R$245.6 million, to West Ham after weeks of talks. He signed a five-year deal to 2031 and has 24 games with eight goals.

Source: Coluna Do Fla