Lucas Paquetá’s Desire to Rejoin Flamengo
Lucas Paquetá, the Brazilian midfielder currently playing for West Ham, has shared that he expressed interest in rejoining his former team, Flamengo, during the past summer transfer window. The 28-year-old revealed that he had conversations with Flamengo’s coach, Filipe Luís, who is a longtime friend, and conveyed his desire to return to the club deeper to his agents as well.
Cleared of Misconduct and Renewed Aspirations
Paquetá explained that his longing to play for Flamengo intensified particularly after he was cleared of misconduct following an investigation into allegations of spot-fixing, which he had faced since May 2024.
“When I knew I could continue playing normally, the desire to come back grew even stronger,”
Paquetá disclosed during an interview with Globoesporte. However, he ultimately decided against forcing a move away from West Ham, stating,
“I owe a lot to my current club, which has always supported me, and I have a significant affection for it.”
He acknowledges that despite his strong inclination to make a switch, it was important to respect his commitment to West Ham, where he is contracted until June 2027.
Career Journey and Future Aspirations
Paquetá had initially departed Flamengo in January 2019 to join AC Milan, marking the start of his European career. Currently, he is preparing with the Brazilian national team in London for an upcoming friendly match against Senegal to be held at Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Reflecting on the future, he remained optimistic about one day reuniting with Flamengo, assuring fans that
“the doors will always be open for me. I have no doubt that my return will happen at some point.”
As Paquetá navigates his current season in the Premier League, he continues to balance his aspirations with the responsibilities at West Ham, where he has established himself as an essential player over the past four seasons.
