West Ham’s Paqueta Hits Back at Aston Villa Fans With Goal Celebration After Loan Approach
West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta Sends Blunt Transfer Message to Aston Villa With Goal Celebration
By Jeorge Bird, Digital Esports Reporter | Updated: 20:34 BST, 31 August 2025
West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta made headlines with a defiant celebration after scoring in a crucial 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, seemingly dismissing Aston Villa’s late transfer interest.
[Image 1: Paqueta celebrates by mimicking a phone call and throwing it away]
Paqueta’s celebration mocked transfer speculation after Villa’s deadline-day approach.
Villa, managed by Unai Emery, submitted a loan offer with an obligation to buy the 28-year-old Brazilian ahead of Monday’s transfer deadline. However, Paqueta’s response was unequivocal. After converting an 84th-minute penalty to seal West Ham’s first Premier League win of the season, he pantomimed answering a phone before discarding it and kissing the club badge in front of jubilant away fans.
The gesture underscored his commitment to the Hammers, quashing rumors of a move. Losing Paqueta would have been a major setback for West Ham, who rely heavily on his creativity. Since joining in 2022, he has become a linchpin, tallying 21 goals and 14 assists in 124 appearances.
Match Context: Hammers Bounce Back
West Ham’s season began disastrously with league losses to Sunderland and Chelsea, followed by a Carabao Cup exit to Wolves. The Forest clash became a must-win, and Jarrod Bowen broke the deadlock in the 84th minute with a clinical finish. Paqueta doubled the lead from the spot minutes later, and substitute Callum Wilson added a third in stoppage time.
[Image 2: Jarrod Bowen opens the scoring for West Ham]
Bowen’s goal set the stage for Paqueta’s memorable moment.
Celebration Speaks Volumes
Paqueta’s theatrics stole the spotlight. By tossing away an imaginary phone—a nod to transfer negotiations—and embracing the badge, he signaled loyalty amid swirling speculation. Fans erupted, chanting his name, while social media buzzed with interpretations of the stunt.
[Image 3: Paqueta kisses the West Ham badge post-goal]
The midfielder’s badge kiss cemented his bond with supporters.
Villa’s Interest and West Ham’s Stance
Villa’s pursuit aligned with their ambitious summer under Emery, but West Ham stood firm. Insiders confirm the club never entertained a loan deal, valuing Paqueta’s role in their rebuild. Manager David Moyes praised the star post-match: “Lucas showed his heart tonight. He’s vital to our plans.”
With the transfer window closed, Paqueta’s focus shifts to reigniting West Ham’s campaign. The victory lifts them to 15th, offering momentum ahead of a tough fixture list. For Villa, the rejection stings, but Emery remains optimistic: “We respect his decision. Now we target other opportunities.”
Fan Reactions
Supporters flooded forums, applauding Paqueta’s passion. “That celebration was iconic—he’s all in for the club,” one fan tweeted. Another added, “Villa should’ve known he’s irreplaceable here.”
As the dust settles, Paqueta’s message is clear: his future lies in East London.
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