A wave of disappointment crashed over the London Stadium on Sunday as West Ham surrendered a lead not once, but twice, ultimately falling to defeat. Goals from Mateus Fernandes and Jarrod Bowen ignited hope, but an own goal and a second-half brace from Morgan Rogers extinguished it, handing victory to the visitors.
The frustration was palpable, radiating from the stands and echoing in the manager’s box. Nuno Espirito Santo, visibly displeased, didn’t shy away from identifying the turning point – a critical error that shifted the momentum and ultimately cost his team dearly.
The focus of that frustration landed squarely on Lucas Paqueta. Nuno pinpointed a costly giveaway by the Brazilian midfielder as the catalyst for Rogers’ first goal, a moment that allowed Aston Villa to claw their way back into the contest.
“We had positives, but also things we must improve,” Nuno stated, his words laced with disappointment. “The beginning of the second half was pivotal. We were leading, and allowed them back in. This has been a recurring issue – we lose our grip when ahead.”
This isn’t an isolated incident. A pattern has emerged, with West Ham repeatedly squandering leads, and Paqueta’s recent performances have drawn scrutiny. The midfielder has struggled to consistently replicate the form that initially excited fans.
Paqueta’s journey hasn’t been without its shadows. A recent FA charge regarding alleged spot-fixing cast a long cloud, though those concerns were ultimately dismissed. However, the ordeal seemed to impact his play, and regaining his previous sharpness has proven difficult.
As the January transfer window looms, speculation surrounding Paqueta’s future is intensifying. The question now hangs heavy in the air: can he rediscover his best form for West Ham, or will this period of struggle lead to a parting of ways?
