Lucas Paquetá is facing a severe sanction due to match-fixing allegations. According to The Sun, the FA has requested an “extraordinary penalty” for the Brazilian player, which could result in a lifetime ban if he is found guilty. 

The case revolves around deliberate yellow cards in four matches (against Leicester in 2022, and Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Bournemouth in 2023), where Paquetá allegedly aimed to benefit friends by intentionally receiving bookings. 

According to The Sun, the FA report indicates that up to 60 people placed bets on these yellow cards, resulting in estimated profits exceeding £100,000. If declared guilty, Paquetá’s punishment could surpass previous sanctions, including Sandro Tonali’s ten-month suspension. 

Unfortunately, this situation has already impacted his career, as his anticipated move to Manchester City fell through. Despite this, he remains eligible to participate in the Copa América with Brazil.