Lucas Paquetá Criticized for Reckless Outburst in Loss to Liverpool

West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta was labeled “entirely reckless” following his red card for an aggressive confrontation with referee Darren England.

The Hammers offered a brief respite to a struggling Liverpool side at the London Stadium on Sunday, as goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo secured the Reds their first victory since early November.

However, Paqueta complicated matters for his team with an unnecessary outburst directed at the referee, resulting in his dismissal in the 84th minute.

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Lucas Paqueta deemed irresponsible for red card incident

The incident was sparked when Dominik Szoboszlai fell down relatively easily following a challenge from Niclas Fullkrug.

Though Paqueta was near the incident, he wasn't directly involved, yet he managed to draw the referee's attention with his protests.

Instead of heeding England’s warning, Paqueta escalated his agitation, approaching the referee and arguing vehemently.

The 28-year-old had to be pulled away, with even opposition goalkeeper Alisson attempting to separate his Brazil teammate from the situation, but he persisted.

Due to the aggressive nature of his actions, England had no choice but to issue a second yellow card, to which Paqueta sarcastically applauded as he left the pitch, continuing to argue with the officials.

“It’s entirely reckless,” remarked Sky Sports commentator Don Goodman. “He’s lost his composure. He hasn’t aided the team in any way.”

A second yellow card carries a one-match suspension, which means the Brazilian will miss the Hammers’ upcoming match at Old Trafford on Thursday.

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Nuno Espirito Santo is justified in being frustrated with Paqueta, according to eScored.

There was no justification for the player to be sent off in a situation where he wasn’t even involved, and they will now face the Red Devils without one of their key players.

Some blame may also fall on captain Jarrod Bowen and his teammates, who could have intervened more effectively to pull Paqueta away from the confrontation, but the primary responsibility lies with the Brazilian.

Paqueta’s market value is estimated at €35m, according to Transfermarkt. West Ham will next face Manchester United when Premier League action resumes next week.