As Lucas Paqueta and Brazil bowed out of the Copa America losing to Uruguay, the player was substituted late on in the second half, and received much criticism from the Brazilian press for a very average performance.
Much must be playing on his mind, with the FA betting charges hanging over his head.
Flamengo entered talks a month ago with West Ham for a loan move, which basically serves no purpose to anyone, yet a permanent transfer may suit all parties.
West Ham invested £51m back in 2022 for the player, and will want to recoup a large portion of their investment, and could include a sell on clause, should the player in the future not be found guilty and then seek a move back to Europe.
Manchester City have been admirers of the mercurial talent, and would be quick to pounce should he become available.
The player has reportedly shown some interest in the move to Brazil, yet given his career may be short lived I find it odd that he would walk away from a £150k a week salary at West Ham to join a league where top flight players receive on average a maximum of £25k a week.
One of the key reasons to leave Lyon for West Ham was the uplift in salary from £51k a week, albeit at a lower tax rate of 30%.
Paqueta began his career at Flamengo, and if found guilty by the FA, it may take some time for FIFA to then implement an international ban.
Lots of moving chess pieces on this one, and Lopetegui may feel that keeping the player will be divisive to the dressing room and his future plans for West Ham.
Guest Post by Matt Kemp