Lucas Paquetá: The Journey of a Brazilian Football Star
Lucas Tolentino Coelho de Lima, better known as Lucas Paquetá, is one of the brightest names in Brazilian football today. Born on August 27, 1997, on the Ilha de Paquetá in Rio de Janeiro, the midfielder has won the hearts of fans in Brazil and Europe with his talent, versatility, and charisma. His journey, marked by triumphs, challenges, and memorable moments, embodies the essence of Brazilian football: technique, passion, and resilience. This article dives into the life and career of Lucas Paquetá, exploring his meteoric rise, his stints at major clubs, and his impact on the Brazilian national team.
Childhood and First Steps in Football
Roots on Ilha de Paquetá
Lucas Paquetá was born and raised on Ilha de Paquetá, a small paradise in the heart of Guanabara Bay. The son of Marcelo and Cris Paquetá, he inherited a love for football from an early age. The tranquil island, known for its car-free streets, was the backdrop where Lucas began kicking a ball. Playing in local squares and beaches, he developed the skills that would later take him to the world’s biggest football stages.
Joining Flamengo
At the age of 10, in 2007, Lucas joined the youth academy of Flamengo, one of Brazil’s biggest clubs. His arrival at Ninho do Urubu, the club’s training center, marked the start of a promising journey. At Flamengo, Paquetá quickly stood out for his vision, precise passing, and ball control. His dedication and talent made him a gem of the youth ranks, with coaches and scouts predicting a bright future.
Rise at Flamengo
Professional Debut and Copa São Paulo
In 2016, Paquetá took a significant leap in his career. A key player in Flamengo’s victorious campaign in the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, he was instrumental in securing the title. In the final against Corinthians, Flamengo won 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regular time. Paquetá scored four goals in the tournament, finishing as the team’s joint-second-top scorer alongside names like Thiago and Felipe Vizeu.
His performance in the Copinha caught the attention of then-coach Muricy Ramalho, who promoted him to the senior squad. On March 5, 2016, Paquetá made his professional debut in a 3-1 victory over Bangu in the Campeonato Carioca. Wearing the number 11 shirt, he showed personality and began earning a place in the Flamengo squad.
First Goal and Consolidation
Paquetá’s first goal for Flamengo came on February 19, 2017, in a 4-0 thrashing of Madureira at the Raulino de Oliveira Stadium in Volta Redonda. The goal was pure magic: after intercepting a pass from the goalkeeper, Paquetá, from 34 meters out, struck a first-time lob to seal the scoreline with a stunning strike that remains etched in the memory of Flamengo fans.
In 2017, Paquetá also shone in national and international competitions. He scored in the Copa do Brasil final against Cruzeiro and in the Copa Sudamericana final against Independiente, though Flamengo finished as runners-up in both. His performance in the Sudamericana, where he was named Flamengo’s best player on the pitch, cemented his status as one of Brazilian football’s brightest prospects.
Brasileirão Stardom and Recognition
With the arrival of coach Maurício Barbieri in 2018, Paquetá returned to his natural attacking midfield role. His versatility, combined with goals, assists, and an impressive heat map, made him a standout in the Campeonato Brasileiro. He was voted the best left-back in the 2018 Campeonato Carioca, a testament to his ability to play multiple positions.
His performances attracted attention from European clubs, with Paquetá linked to giants like Milan, Juventus, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain. In October 2018, Milan secured his signature for €35 million, a milestone for the 21-year-old.
Career in Europe
Milan: The First European Challenge
In January 2019, Paquetá arrived in Italy to play for Milan. Signing a five-year contract, he chose the number 39 shirt as a nod to his journey. His debut came on January 12 in a 2-0 win over Sampdoria in the Coppa Italia. Four days later, he played in the Italian Supercup against Juventus, but Milan lost 1-0.
Paquetá scored his first Serie A goal in a 3-0 win over Cagliari, dedicating it to the victims of a fire at Flamengo’s youth academy. Despite moments of brilliance, adapting to Italian football was challenging, with tactical difficulties and the pressure of playing for a historic club. After two seasons, he left Milan with 44 appearances and just one goal.
Lyon: Resurgence in France
In September 2020, Paquetá signed with Lyon for €20 million. In Ligue 1, he found his best form. Under coach Rudi Garcia, the Brazilian midfielder shone with his vision, dribbling, and decisive goals. In the 2021-22 season, Paquetá was voted the best foreign player in Ligue 1 in a poll with over 20,000 participants, surpassing names like Marquinhos and Jonathan David.
His performances at Lyon reignited interest from European clubs, and in August 2022, Paquetá was signed by West Ham United in the Premier League for a club-record fee exceeding £50 million.
West Ham: European Glory and Controversies
Paquetá arrived at West Ham in 2022 and quickly adapted to the intense pace of the Premier League. His debut came on August 31 in a 1-1 draw against Tottenham. His first goal followed on January 4, 2023, in a 2-2 draw with Leeds United. However, his defining moment of the season came in the UEFA Europa Conference League final on June 7, 2023. Paquetá provided the assist for Jarrod Bowen’s decisive goal, securing a 2-1 victory over Fiorentina and West Ham’s first title in 43 years.
Despite his on-field success, Paquetá faced a major off-field challenge. In May 2024, he was charged by the Football Association (FA) with alleged involvement in sports betting related to yellow cards received in four Premier League matches. The investigation, which began in 2023, sparked speculation and threatened his career, with the FA even seeking a potential ban from football. Paquetá vehemently denied the allegations, and on July 31, 2025, he was cleared of the main charges due to insufficient evidence. However, he still faces a lesser penalty for not fully cooperating with the investigation, under FA Rule F3.
Brazilian National Team
Early Call-Ups
Paquetá debuted for the Brazilian national team in 2018, called up by Tite for friendlies against the United States and El Salvador. His first major tournament was the 2019 Copa América, where Brazil won the title on home soil. Although a substitute, Paquetá gained valuable experience alongside stars like Neymar and Coutinho.
World Cup and 2025 Return
A starter at the 2022 World Cup, Paquetá was a key figure in Brazil’s midfield, despite their quarter-final exit against Croatia. His national team career faced setbacks due to the betting allegations, which led to his absence from some call-ups. In September 2025, now cleared, he was recalled by Carlo Ancelotti for World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia, marking his return to the international stage.
Playing Style and Legacy
Versatility and Technique
Paquetá is known for his versatility, capable of playing as an attacking midfielder, winger, or in deeper roles. His ball control, vision, and playmaking ability make him a complete player. Additionally, his defensive commitment and intensity have won over coaches and fans alike.
Impact on Brazilian Football
As one of the few Brazilian players to shine in the Premier League, Paquetá carries the legacy of Brazil’s “jogo bonito.” His journey from a boy on Ilha de Paquetá to a European star inspires young athletes and reinforces Brazil’s tradition of producing exceptional talent.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Paquetá is a family man. Married to Maria Eduarda Fournier, he is a father of two. His wife supported him through the challenging betting allegations, and Paquetá often expresses gratitude to her and his fans. He remains connected to Ilha de Paquetá, where his story began, and is admired by the local community.
Conclusion
Lucas Paquetá is more than a footballer; he is a symbol of resilience and talent. From his debut at Flamengo to winning a European title with West Ham, he has faced challenges with determination and shone on the sport’s biggest stages. Cleared of the allegations that threatened his career, Paquetá is poised to write new chapters in the Premier League and with the Brazilian national team. At just 28 years old, the future holds even more promise for this Brazilian star who carries the pride of Ilha de Paquetá and Brazil in every play.
