Brazil Excludes Lucas Paqueta Amid Betting Investigation

 Brazil Excludes Lucas Paqueta Amid Betting Investigation

Brazil Excludes Lucas Paqueta(Image-Getty)

Brazil has made the decision to exclude Lucas Paqueta, the midfielder from West Ham United, from their upcoming World Cup qualifiers roster. This decision comes amidst media speculation that both the English FA and FIFA have initiated investigations into potential violations of betting regulations.

Interim coach Fernando Diniz revealed that Paqueta, aged 25, was left out of the squad at the eleventh hour to allow him to address his ongoing issues. Sky Sports reported that Paqueta denied any personal involvement in betting activities and expressed surprise at the reports. Notably, The Guardian clarified that Paqueta was not accused of placing bets himself.

West Ham, the Premier League club to which Paqueta belongs, has not provided an immediate response, and inquiries have also been directed to FIFA for their comments on the matter.

Diniz stated, "Paqueta was on the list, he's a player I like a lot. It's a time for him to resolve these issues." He emphasized the need for individuals to have time to address such matters, while conveying his personal fondness for the player.

Lucas Paqueta has achieved nine goals in 42 appearances for the Brazilian national team. Meanwhile, Neymar, the forward who recently joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, has been included in the squad for the upcoming matches against Bolivia on September 8th and Peru four days later.

Despite not having played for Brazil since the previous World Cup due to an ankle injury sustained in February, Neymar's inclusion reflects his renewed commitment to the national team. Diniz shared that Neymar expressed a desire to collaborate and expressed happiness about the opportunity to rejoin the squad.

Fernando Diniz, who also holds the position of Fluminense coach, will take charge of Brazil during his inaugural matches as the interim manager. This role is temporary, as the Brazilian FA anticipates the eventual arrival of Carlo Ancelotti, the Real Madrid coach, in 2024.

The squad lineup includes prominent players from elite clubs:

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Athletico Paranaense), and Ederson (Manchester City)

Defenders: Danilo (Juventus), Vanderson (AS Monaco), Caio Henrique (AS Monaco), Renan Lodi (Nottingham Forest), Roger Ibanez (Al-Ahli), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Marquinhos (Paris St Germain), and Nino (Fluminense)