West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá is struggling emotionally after being sent off in Sunday’s 2-0 Premier League home defeat to Liverpool, according to manager Nuno Espirito Santo.

Paquetá received two yellow cards for dissent within 60 seconds with less than 10 minutes remaining. Despite efforts from his teammates to calm him, the 28-year-old Brazilian continued his protest against referee Darren England and was ultimately dismissed.

Following the match, Paquetá criticized the Football Association for not providing psychological support during a recent spot-fixing investigation. He also issued an apology to his teammates and fans, while maintaining that his behavior did not warrant a red card.

The midfielder was cleared of four spot-fixing charges by the FA in July, having faced the possibility of a lifetime ban, which he denied.

“I spoke with Lucas and he apologised to his teammates,” Nuno said ahead of West Ham’s trip to Manchester United on Thursday. “He’s not okay and he’s suffering. He’s disappointed and sad, but he realises the mistake he made and wants to move forward. Sometimes people aren’t aware of all the pressures footballers endure, but Lucas will overcome this situation.”

Paquetá joined West Ham from Olympique Lyonnais in 2022 and is contracted until 2027. Despite speculation about his future, Nuno emphasized that the Brazilian is happy at the East London club.

“I think the investigation has affected him, but he is determined to move forward, put this behind him, and continue playing football the way he does,” Nuno added. “We’ve had a good conversation, and the squad supports Lucas.”