Flamengo set to let forgotten winger go as Qatar offer looms | OneFootball

Michael may be approaching the end of his time at Flamengo, as interest grows from clubs in Qatar—most notably Al-Duhail, whose executives are reported to be considering an official offer for the forward. The Brazilian attacker has struggled to recapture the form from his initial spell at the club, and internal sentiment at Flamengo suggests his departure this mid-year transfer window would be met with little resistance.

Since returning to Flamengo last August from Al-Hilal, Michael has yet to make a significant impact. Despite his energetic style and relentless work rate, concerns over his lack of end product have resurfaced, both within the club and among commentators. In the current campaign, Michael has registered just one goal and one assist in 20 appearances, with his influence limited even when given rare starts.

After Flamengo’s recent 4-2 Copa do Brasil victory over Botafogo-PB—a match in which Michael played but failed to contribute a goal or assist—debate around his future intensified. During analysis on “Redação Sportv,” Francisco Aiello and Pedro Moreno both noted that Michael’s struggles with finishing and decision-making have persisted, despite his ability to unsettle defences with pace and directness. Aiello remarked, “Michael continues to have a very big difficulty finishing moves. He builds, starts well, runs, and troubles opponents, but his decision-making remains very deficient—be it the pass or the shot.” Moreno added, “He’s always had a lot of movement and aggression in attack… but his best spell here was with Renato Gaúcho, back in 2021. That period feels like an exception.”

The possibility of Michael leaving is also informed by Flamengo’s squad and financial planning. Internal discussions have indicated the club is open to moves that would rebalance their finances and create room for new wide players, particularly after investment in the previous transfer window. While outgoings are unlikely to be confirmed before Flamengo take part in the Club World Cup (scheduled between June and July), the transfer window remains open through early September, providing ample time for negotiation.

President Luiz Eduardo Baptista, speaking at a recent club council meeting, acknowledged that some departures are expected this summer to facilitate new signings. Although Michael generated interest from other Brazilian teams at the start of the year, he stayed put. Now, with the club’s priorities shifting and his role increasingly marginal, an approach from Al-Duhail may finally see the winger move on—giving Flamengo the opportunity to refresh their attacking options for the remainder of the year.

Source: Lance, Gazeta Esportiva