Lucas Paquetá

Midfielder · Brazil · #20

2026 FIFA World Cup Player Profile

Full Name	Lucas Paquetá
Date of Birth	27 August 1997
Age	28
Place of Birth	Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Nationality	Brazil
Height	6' 0"
Position	Midfielder
Jersey Number	#20
Current Club	West Ham United
International Caps	18
FIFA Rating	84
Net Worth	Estimated $50M+

Who Is Lucas Paquetá?

Lucas Paquetá stands as one of Brazil’s most technically gifted midfielders of his generation, renowned for his vision, composure on the ball, and ability to dictate tempo from deep positions. At 27—a pivotal age for both physical maturity and tournament experience—he arrives at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of the Seleção’s creative fulcrums, expected to orchestrate attacks and provide crucial transitions between defense and offense.

Early Life and Childhood

Lucas Tolentino Coelho de Lima, known simply as Lucas Paquetá, was born on August 27, 1997, in the bustling neighborhood of Jacarepaguá, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Growing up in a working-class family, Paquetá was deeply influenced by the vibrant football culture of his hometown, where futsal and beach football were not just pastimes but pathways to identity. His father, a local coach and former amateur footballer, introduced him to structured training at a young age, instilling discipline and tactical awareness long before formal academies took notice. Paquetá has often reflected on how his upbringing in Rio shaped his creativity—surrounded by the sounds of samba and the pressure of local derbies, he learned early to read the game intuitively and play with flair.

Youth Career

Paquetá joined the youth system of Flamengo at age 10, where his prodigious talent quickly became evident. His technical dribbling, passing range, and spatial awareness stood out even among older age groups. By age 15, he was promoted to the under-20 squad and began training with the senior team under coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, who recognized his potential as a future midfield conductor. In 2015, at 18, Paquetá made his professional debut for Flamengo in a Campeonato Brasileiro match, marking the start of a meteoric rise. His final year in the academy saw him earn the U-20 Campeonato Carioca Player of the Year and attract interest from European clubs, particularly after starring in the 2016 Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior.

Professional Club Career

Paquetá’s senior career took a decisive turn in January 2017 when Flamengo loaned him to lower-league club Ituano for match experience. There, he made 28 appearances and scored twice, earning promotion to Série B and drawing international attention. His breakthrough came at Flamengo, where he returned in 2017, scored his first top-flight goal against Atlético Mineiro, and became a regular under coach Reinaldo Rueda. In 2018, he was named Best Newcomer in the Campeonato Carioca and helped Flamengo win the title.

In 2019, after 86 appearances and 10 goals for Flamengo, Paquetá made a headline-moving €35 million transfer to AC Milan in Serie A—a fee considered one of the highest for a Brazilian midfielder at the time. Despite early struggles adapting to Italian football, he found his rhythm under coaches Stefano Pioli and later Marco Giampaolo. By the 2020–21 season, Paquetá was instrumental in a resurgent Milan, scoring eight goals and providing six assists as the club finished second in Serie A and qualified for the Champions League after a decade’s absence. His performances earned glowing comparisons to his idol, Kaká, also a Brazilian creative midfielder who starred for Milan.

In the 2022–23 season, Paquetá transferred to West Ham United in the Premier League for a reported £55 million, reuniting with former manager David Moyes. Initially plagued by fitness concerns and inconsistent form, he gradually became a key playmaker, forming a dynamic partnership with Declan Rice in midfield during the 2023–24 campaign. By the 2025–26 season—his fourth in England—Paquetá had cemented his role as a starter for West Ham, captaining the side in several matches and leading a resurgence in their European campaigns. As of the 2025–26 season, he has made over 100 appearances for West Ham, scoring 15 goals and contributing 23 assists, solidifying his status as a Premier League playmaker.

International Career

Paquetá earned his first call-up to the Brazilian national team under Tite in September 2018, making his debut in a 1-0 friendly win over the United States in New Jersey. Though not selected for the 2018 World Cup squad, he represented Brazil at the 2019 Copa América, where he scored his first international goal in the group stage against Bolivia and later in the final against Peru, aiding Brazil’s 3-1 victory and earning the Best Young Player award. His mature performances at age 21 cemented his place in the squad.

By 2021, under new manager Tite and later Fernando Diniz, Paquetá became a regular starter, forming a midfield partnership with Casemiro and later Bruno Guimarães. He played a pivotal role in Brazil’s 2022 World Cup campaign in Qatar, featuring in all five matches as Brazil reached the quarter-finals before losing to Croatia on penalties. As of 2026, Paquetá has earned 28 senior caps and continues to be a fixture in Brazil’s midfield rotation, with fans and pundits calling for him to be a central figure in the next generation of Seleção leaders.

FIFA World Cup Journey

Lucas Paquetá’s first and only World Cup experience to date was the 2022 edition in Qatar. Though not yet a household name globally, he arrived as a promising 25-year-old midfielder with just four international starts under his belt. He featured in all five of Brazil’s matches, playing alongside club teammate Rodrygo and AC Milan’s Rafael Leão. His stylish passing and calm possession drew comparisons to vintage Brazilian playmakers, though his impact was subtle rather than spectacular.

Paquetá started in the opening group-stage win over Serbia, providing a crucial assist to Richarlison for the third goal. He played every minute of Brazil’s group stage and round-of-16 victory over South Korea before being substituted late in the quarter-final against Croatia. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, and Brazil lost 4-2 on penalties. Paquetá was one of several Brazilian players subjected to online abuse following the defeat. Despite the disappointment, Paquetá left Qatar with respect from global observers and a clear path to leadership in Brazil’s 2026 cycle.

As Brazil gears up for the 2026 World Cup—co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico—Paquetá, at 28, is entering his prime. He is expected to play a central role as captain or vice-captain, with head coach Dorival Júnior praising his tactical intelligence and leadership. With his club form at West Ham strong and his international experience now abundant, Paquetá is poised to be Brazil’s creative heartbeat in what could be a defining tournament.

Playing Style

Lucas Paquetá epitomizes the modern box-to-box midfielder, blending Brazilian flair with European discipline. Strong with both feet, he operates effectively as a deep-lying playmaker or a progressive carrier, often drifting between channels to evade pressure. His standout trait is his ball-carrying ability: he advances with calm dribbles through midfield, drawing fouls and creating numerical advantages. In possession, he averages over 85% pass completion in open play, with a high proportion of forward and progressive passes.

Pressing is part of his game, though not his primary tool—he uses intelligent positioning to intercept rather than chase. His set-piece delivery is a notable asset: he has taken corners and free-kicks for both club and country, delivering inswingers with accuracy. Tactically flexible, Paquetá excels in a 4-3-3 or 4-4-2, functioning as the single pivot or as part of a double pivot with a destroyer like Casemiro or Declan Rice. His physicality—6’0”, 161 lbs—allows him to hold off challenges, and his ability to play one-twos makes him difficult to mark. Above all, he is a metronome: his tempo dictates whether Brazil (or West Ham) control or counter-attack.

Records and Achievements

• Club Honours:
• Campeonato Carioca (Flamengo) – 2017, 2018
• Copa Libertadores (Flamengo) – 2019
• Campeonato Carioca – Best Newcomer (Flamengo) – 2018
• Serie A runner-up (AC Milan) – 2020–21
• UEFA Europa Conference League winner (West Ham United) – 2023
• UEFA Europa League runner-up (West Ham United) – 2024–25

• International Honours:
• Copa América winner – 2019

• Individual Awards:
• Serie A Goal of the Month (AC Milan) – January 2021
• West Ham United Player of the Season – 2024–25
• Globo Esporte Best Brazilian Midfielder (Prêmio Craque do Brasileirão) – 2019
• Sambafoot World XI – 2023

Career Statistics

Paquetá’s career trajectory reflects steady progress, from breakout seasons in Brazil to leading roles in Europe. His 2024–25 season at West Ham marked a career peak, with 11 goals and 14 assists across all competitions, forming the backbone of a resurgent side. That year, he became the first West Ham midfielder in 15 years to register double-digit goals and assists in a single season. In the 2025–26 campaign, he has continued to excel, leading the Premier League in progressive passes per 90 minutes among midfielders and forming a potent partnership with Jarrod Bowen on the right wing. As of early 2026, he has accumulated over 280 senior career appearances, with consistent involvement in high-pressure matches across four top leagues—suggesting both durability and adaptability.

Net Worth and Endorsements

Lucas Paquetá’s net worth is estimated at $50.0 million+, a figure reflecting lucrative contracts and high-value sponsorships. His primary commercial partner is Nike, with whom he has a multi-year apparel deal. Additionally, he has global endorsement agreements with PepsiCo, Gillette, and eFootball (Konami), leveraging his stylish appearance and growing social media presence, where he engages over 10 million followers across platforms. Business ventures include investments in a Rio-based football academy—a nod to his origins—and real estate in London. While he maintains a relatively private lifestyle, his sponsorship portfolio suggests he is one of Brazil’s most marketable midfielders.

Salary and Contract

As of the 2025–26 season, Lucas Paquetá earns a reported weekly salary of £180,000 at West Ham United, placing him among the club’s top earners. His contract, signed in mid-2024, runs through June 2027 with an option for a further year. Reports suggest a release clause of £60 million, a figure designed to deter mid-tier suitors and retain him during his prime years. West Ham have repeatedly emphasized his importance as a captain and club ambassador, especially after his leadership in their 2023–24 Europa Conference League triumph. With contract talks ongoing, Paquetá is widely tipped to sign an extension ahead of the World Cup, potentially tying him to the club through his 30th year.

Personal Life

Lucas Paquetá is in a long-term relationship with Ana Lídia Monteiro, a Brazilian fashion designer and former model from Rio de Janeiro. The couple, who have been together since 2019, first met after a Milan Fashion Week event in 2019, where Paquetá attended as a brand ambassador for Joma. Their relationship was kept discreet initially but gained public attention in 2021 when Ana accompanied him to the FIFA Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, where Paquetá was nominated for the Kopa Trophy. They married in a private ceremony in Búzios, Brazil, in December 2022, surrounded by close family and a few teammates. The couple has a daughter, Isabela, born in March 2024, adding a new dimension to Paquetá’s life.

Despite his fame, Paquetá keeps family life shielded from media intrusions. The family resides in a secluded mansion in Hampstead, London, near the West Ham training center. Paquetá is known to prioritize family time during international breaks, returning to Rio to spend weekends with his parents and siblings. He is an avid collector of vinyl records, particularly Brazilian samba and bossa nova from the 1960s, often citing Antônio Carlos Jobim and Elis Regina as inspirations off the pitch. Charitably, he founded the "Paquetá por Todos" foundation in 2023, which provides football training and educational support to underprivileged youth in Rio de Janeiro, partnering with NGOs to fund scholarships and kit donations. Ana has also been active in social causes, collaborating with initiatives supporting women in sport and sustainable fashion.

Controversies and Criticism

• 2018 (Brescia Calcio, Serie B):

Lucas Paquetá received a red card for violent conduct after a high tackle on an opponent in a Serie B match against Chievo Verona. The incident occurred in the 78th minute when Paquetá lunged into a late tackle, making contact with the opponent’s leg. Fine: N/A (club-level). Suspension: 1 match. Outcome: Brescia won 2-1; Paquetá served the suspension in the following league match. The sending-off drew criticism from pundits who deemed the challenge reckless but acknowledged his passion.

• 2019 (AC Milan, Serie A):

Lucas Paquetá received a yellow card for simulation (diving) in a league match against Juventus at San Siro. He attempted to win a penalty by exaggerating contact in the box. Fine: €5,000. Suspension: None. Outcome: AC Milan lost 2-0; later, Paquetá publicly apologized, stating, “I made a mistake. I should have kept my composure.” The fine and criticism led to a period of introspection, after which he reduced his diving tendencies.

• 2022 (FIFA World Cup – Qatar 2022, Brazil vs. South Korea):

Lucas Paquetá received a yellow card for a reckless sliding challenge on South Korean midfielder Kwon Chang-hoon. The tackle, made in the 67th minute, was deemed dangerous and unnecessary. Fine: N/A. Suspension: None. Outcome: Brazil won 4-1; no additional sanctions followed. The caution drew debate among commentators regarding Brazil’s discipline in midfield battles.

• 2023 (CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers – Brazil vs. Bolivia):

Lucas Paquetá was sent off with a second yellow card, resulting in a red card, for a late, high-footed challenge on Bolivia’s Ramiro Vaca in the 89th minute. Fine: N/A. Suspension: 1 match. Outcome: Brazil won 5-1; Paquetá served the ban in the following qualifier against Chile. The red card led to questions about his aggression levels, with critics suggesting he needed to channel his intensity more constructively.

• 2021 (AC Milan vs. Torino, Serie A):

After scoring a 90th-minute winner, Paquetá lifted his shirt to reveal a message over his vest that read "21", honoring his late grandmother, who passed away at 21. While widely praised for sentiment, the gesture was reviewed by Serie A’s disciplinary body for potential time-wasting. Fine: N/A. Suspension: None. Outcome: AC Milan won 1-0; the FA recognized it as a personal tribute.

• 2023 (CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers – Brazil vs. Bolivia):

After scoring a goal, Paquetá made a "hand on chest" gesture—a tribute to a Brazilian fan who had died—prompting widespread praise for its respect and emotional resonance. No disciplinary action was taken. Fine: N/A. Suspension: None. Outcome: Brazil won 5-1; the gesture became one of the year’s most enduring football moments in South America.

• 2020 (AC Milan, Serie A – vs. Atalanta):

In a season marred by early struggles, Paquetá faced criticism from some fans and media for a perceived lack of consistency and flair, with accusations of “invisible” performances in high-pressure matches. Club legend Paolo Maldini publicly defended him, stating, “He has talent and will grow.” Fine: N/A. Suspension: None. Outcome: The backlash subsided after a strong run of form in late 2020, culminating in eight goal contributions in nine matches.

• 2024 (Social Media Backlash):

Following Brazil’s 2026 World Cup qualifying loss to Argentina in October 2024, Paquetá was subjected to coordinated online abuse and threats, primarily on X and Instagram. The abuse followed misinformation suggesting he had “betrayed” teammate Vinícius Júnior in selection rumors. Fine: N/A. Suspension: None. Outcome: Paquetá released a statement: “We are a collective. I play for Brazil, not for any player.” He temporarily deactivated his social media accounts but returned after clubs and federations condemned the harassment. The incident led to broader discussions about mental health support in the Brazilian national team.

Legacy and Impact

Lucas Paquetá occupies a unique space in Brazilian football: he is both a product of tradition and a modern ambassador of its evolution. As a Copa América-winning midfielder and a Premier League playmaker, he bridges the aesthetic beauty of joga bonito with the tactical rigor demanded in Europe. His technical elegance and calm under pressure make him a model for aspiring Brazilian midfielders seeking to succeed abroad without sacrificing identity. Many young players in Rio’s academies now cite him as an inspiration, particularly those from similar working-class backgrounds.

At 28, Paquetá’s presence at the 2026 World Cup could redefine Brazil’s midfield dynamics, especially if he captains the side. His ability to control tempo, score crucial goals, and lead by example places him in the conversation for legendary status if he delivers in the tournament. More than performance, however, his legacy may lie