Nuno Espírito Santo Must Swallow Pride Over Exiled West Ham Player Amid Lucas Paquetá Developments

West Ham United manager Nuno Espírito Santo faces a pivotal decision as Lucas Paquetá's desire to return to boyhood club Flamengo intensifies amid the Hammers' relegation battle. The Brazilian midfielder, with 18 months left on his contract, has expressed disillusionment in east London and requested to sit out last weekend's FA Cup win over Queens Park Rangers.[1][2]

Paquetá, who joined from Lyon in 2022, has been a key performer with four goals and one assist in 18 Premier League appearances this season. West Ham sit 18th, seven points from safety, making him an undisputed starter in Nuno's eyes. Despite this, the 28-year-old yearns for Flamengo, having agreed personal terms last month and discussed offers with club legend Braz during his past betting investigation—when West Ham stood by him.[1][2]

Nuno, initially reluctant to lose Paquetá mid-season, has softened his stance. After internal talks, he agreed to push for the player's exit if Flamengo meets West Ham's £50 million ($67.2m) valuation—higher than the Brazilian side's £35m bid. Sources indicate West Ham may lower the price at a shareholder meeting this weekend, eyeing potential higher offers from European clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, who gear up to face the Hammers soon.[2][5]

"We must solve the situation with Lucas Paquetá," Nuno stated, emphasizing squad rebalancing for players lacking minutes while addressing Paquetá's future.[3][4]

Paquetá feels gratitude toward West Ham for their support but believes now is the time to return home, confiding in agents and friend Filipe Luís. His fitness for the upcoming Spurs clash remains uncertain, with a Sunderland visit next. Nuno must swallow his pride, potentially sanctioning a sale of the exiled star to bolster squad options and resolve uncertainty, even if it risks relegation survival. Flamengo's bid hangs in the balance, with West Ham holding firm for now.[1][2][5]

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