Lucas Paqueta Returns to Flamengo: A Heartfelt Homecoming

omidbasir- Lucas Paqueta, one of West Ham’s leading scorers this season, has expressed his long-standing desire to return to Flamengo. The Brazilian international, who scored four goals in the Premier League for a relegation-threatened West Ham, has finally realized his aspiration to join the Rio de Janeiro club.

Paqueta reflected on his wish to return to Flamengo months ago. In November, he revealed: “The first moment Flamengo tried to sign me was when Marcos Braz was still vice president. There was contact from their side. Flamengo is aware of my passion for the club, which has always been mutual. When I faced allegations that led to a trial process, Braz visited me and made an offer. While I wanted to return to Flamengo, I was initially uncertain about my decision, considering the support West Ham had provided during my challenges. I felt a deep sense of gratitude towards the club that embraced me and my family, so I wanted to handle the situation respectfully.”

Before the confirmation of his move, Paqueta acknowledged that while Flamengo may not have needed him, he certainly needed them. On Thursday, he stated, “Maybe Flamengo didn’t need me, but I needed Flamengo. I’m overwhelmed by the love from the fans; I truly feel a connection. My heart is red and black, and I promise to show that on the pitch. I am thrilled to be back home and am committed to bringing joy to the Nation.”

In 2023, Paqueta was on the verge of a lucrative £85 million transfer to Manchester City, but an investigation into alleged betting breaches halted the move. Despite renewed interest from clubs like Chelsea and Tottenham, he remained steadfast in his desire to return to Flamengo. He recalled, “Tottenham called, and Chelsea contacted my agent, who was excited about their interest. However, my only focus was Flamengo. I told him, ‘I don’t care about those options; I want to hear about Flamengo.’ That was my priority.”

Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon in August 2022 for approximately £50 million, making 139 appearances, scoring 23 goals, and contributing to the club’s victory in the inaugural UEFA Europa Conference League in 2023. However, West Ham’s recent statement regarding his departure indicated that they were not wholly pleased with the exit, particularly as he missed several matches leading up to his transfer.

In their farewell message, West Ham stated: “We can confirm that Lucas Paqueta has joined Brazilian club Flamengo on a permanent transfer for an undisclosed fee. Paqueta joined the Hammers in August 2022, making a total of 139 appearances and scoring 23 goals. Everyone at the club would like to thank Lucas for his contributions and wish him well in his future career.”

This move appears to be driven by a heartfelt desire to return home. As Gandalf wisely noted in The Lord of the Rings, “All you have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to you.” It seems Paqueta has made his choice.