Lucas Paqueta and Manchester City were involved in a dramatic transfer saga this summer as the Citizens saw a bid rejected.
As detailed by Sky Sports, an £80m deal was close to being agreed before the Brazil international found himself at the centre of an FA and FIFA betting investigation.
The deal could still happen in 2024, and judging by what Lucas Paqueta did before Manchester City‘s 3-1 win on Saturday, relations between both parties are strong.
What’s the story?
Well, Simon Bajkowski – Chief Manchester City writer for the Manchester Evening News – spotted the South American jogging over to the sideline just before kick-off commenced.
Paqueta was seen greeting Guardiola and the Manchester City coaching staff in front of thousands of supporters at the London Stadium, which was an interesting moment following the dramatic transfer saga this summer.
Bajkowski wrote: “Lucas Paqueta goes over to greet Guardiola and the Manchester City coaching staff before the game.”
A report on the 3-1 win from the Manchester Evening News added that the West Ham No.10 also chatted with those in Manchester City’s dugout.
It was Paqueta himself who sounded out Guardiola, Juanma Lillo and the rest of Manchester City’s staff, which suggests that he is keen to remain in their thoughts despite missing out on a move to the Etihad Stadium – according to talkSPORT, the Brazilian was very keen on the switch.
How Lucas Paqueta performed against Manchester City
Guardiola eventually moved to sign Matheus Nunes from Wolves, although the Spaniard was surely impressed by Paqueta’s display.
As shown by WhoScored, the 26-year-old had 79 touches and completed 64 passes, both of which were far more than any of his teammates managed.
That may seen minor, but it speaks volumes that Paqueta still managed to get a foothold in the game up against the likes of Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden.
The South American also showed his industrial side with three successful tackles – only Vladimir Coufal bettered that on West Ham’s side with four.
Despite the signing of Nunes, Guardiola surely remains a fan of Paqueta after his solid performance on Saturday.
