Lucas Tolentino Coelho De Lima

Lucas Paquetá joined the Flamengo youth academy at age nine. He famously overcame physical development issues through a specialized growth program, eventually becoming the club's most talented youth prospect before his 2016 debut.

Lucas Paquetá's professional career began at Flamengo, where he won the Campeonato Carioca before moving to AC Milan in 2019. After a period of adaptation in Italy, he moved to Lyon in 2020, where he flourished and was named the best foreign player in Ligue 1. In August 2022, he joined West Ham United for a club-record £51 million. In London, he became a fan favorite, playing 139 matches and scoring 23 goals, while helping the club win the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League title.

In January 2026, after three and a half successful seasons in the Premier League, Paquetá completed a permanent transfer back to Flamengo for a fee of £36.5 million. His return was the biggest news of the Brazilian transfer window, as he chose to return home despite interest from major European clubs. During the first half of the 2026 season, he has been in sensational form, scoring 4 goals in 18 appearances and leading the league in chances created. His leadership has been vital as Flamengo targets a historic quadruple.

On the international stage, Paquetá has earned over 50 caps for Brazil. He was a starter in the 2021 Copa América final and played a key role in the 2022 World Cup. Throughout the 2026 qualifying campaign, he has been the primary creative engine in midfield, providing vital link-up play for the forward line. He remains one of manager Carlo Ancelotti's most trusted players and is currently preparing to lead the midfield for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

By May 2026, he has reached over 350 professional appearances and has solidified his status as one of the best playmakers in South America. He wears the number 20 shirt at Flamengo, reflecting his commitment to the team's collective goals. His market value remains high at 28, and he has recently stated that he intends to finish his peak years in Brazil. His career highlights the successful integration of European tactical maturity with traditional Brazilian flair, making him a unique and indispensable asset for both his club and country.

Lucas Paquetá was born and raised on the island that bears his name in Rio de Janeiro. He maintains an incredibly close relationship with his family and his brother, Matheus, who was also a professional footballer. He is a devoted husband to Maria Eduarda Fournier, and the couple has two sons, Benício and Filippo. His family's desire to return to Brazil was a major factor in his 2026 transfer from West Ham.

He is known for his joyful personality and his famous goal celebrations, which often involve traditional Brazilian dances. Off the pitch, he is a brand ambassador for several major fashion and lifestyle brands and is active in charitable work in Rio de Janeiro, particularly on Paquetá Island. He is fluent in Portuguese and French, and has gained strong English skills during his time in London. His resilience in navigating a high-profile FA investigation into betting breaches, which saw him cleared in late 2025, has been widely respected by the footballing community.

In his free time, he enjoys spending time at the beach with his children and following the latest trends in Brazilian music. He is a passionate fan of Flamengo even outside of his professional duties, often seen attending matches as a supporter before his return. His humble nature and professional focus have earned him respect from teammates at AC Milan, Lyon, West Ham, and Flamengo. He remains a central figure in Brazilian media, representing the modern 'Carioca' success story.