In a move charged with deep personal significance, Lucas Paqueta has finalised his emotional homecoming to Flamengo, the club where his footballing journey began. The Brazilian international's departure from West Ham United concludes a period of unrest for both player and club, marked by his expressed desire to return to his homeland.
A Turbulent Season Culminates in a Dream Return
The 28-year-old midfielder had been absent from West Ham's last three fixtures, citing a minor back issue, following his communication of a wish to leave the Premier League side. This disillusionment reportedly stemmed from the protracted battle against the FA's spot-fixing allegations, a cloud that has now lifted after his clearance by an independent disciplinary commission last summer.
With the January transfer window open, Paqueta's determination to secure a move away from the London Stadium intensified. After negotiations between the clubs were settled this week regarding a fee reported to be £35.8 million, the player arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday to a rapturous welcome from thousands of adoring supporters.
Heartfelt Tributes and Social Media Declarations
A day after his arrival, Paqueta took to social media to share his profound feelings about returning to the iconic Maracana stadium, nearly seven years after his initial departure. In a poignant post accompanied by images of him signing his new contract with family present, he wrote a touching tribute to his lifelong club.
'I was born to love you, nothing will separate us,' Paqueta stated. 'I'd give up everything in this life just to be with you. The crazy things I did, the loves I left behind, so many things I lost, but I never abandoned you.'
He acknowledged that his decision might attract criticism, adding: 'Many may criticize, but no one will understand, because only those who are Flamengo fans can comprehend me. We love you, Flamengo.' The post concluded with thanks to God for the unique moment and the words: 'Process, promise, purpose.'
Flamengo reciprocated the sentiment, sharing a compilation video of Paqueta's early years and senior career at the club with the caption: 'Flamengo needs you too, LUCAS PAQUETA! THANK GOODNESS YOU'RE BACK!'
Rejecting Premier League Giants for a Boyhood Dream
Paqueta's commitment to rejoining Flamengo was so absolute that he claims to have dismissed interest from two of the Premier League's most prominent clubs. In an interview with Flamengo TV on Thursday, he revealed: 'Tottenham called, Chelsea called, and the funny thing is that Tata (his agent) called all excited and said: "Chelsea's calling, they're gonna make an offer."'
'I replied: "Okay, but what about Flamengo?" He said: "Are you serious?" I said: "Yeah, I don't care about that. I want to hear about Flamengo," and that's how it all turned out,' Paqueta explained, underscoring his singular focus.
This follows a significant near-move in the summer of 2023, when Manchester City, the serial Premier League champions, had tabled a substantial bid worth around £80 million to secure his services. However, the ongoing spot-fixing allegations at the time ultimately derailed that potential transfer to the Etihad Stadium.
Financial Agreement and West Ham's Relegation Battle
The financial structure of the deal has been carefully negotiated, with West Ham agreeing to receive the transfer fee from Flamengo in instalments stretching through to 2028. The two clubs spent several weeks finalising the complex terms of the agreement.
At one stage during discussions, West Ham were reportedly keen to secure Paqueta on a loan deal for the remainder of the season. This would have allowed the influential player to contribute to their critical fight to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
The Hammers currently find themselves in a precarious position, sitting 18th in the table and five points adrift of safety, with Nottingham Forest being their closest rivals outside the relegation zone. Paqueta's departure, therefore, represents a significant loss of talent as the club battles for survival in England's top flight.
