Palmeiras has officially welcomed Micael, the 24-year-old left-footed defender, to their roster, as the Brazilian club strives to secure their competitive edge for the upcoming season. The announcement was made on February 22, 2025, following successful medical examinations and the finalization of contractual agreements.
Having spent the last three seasons with the Houston Dynamo, where he quickly became known for his strong performances, Micael's arrival was eagerly anticipated. The defender was purchased for approximately $5 million (R$ 28.5 million), and his new contract with Palmeiras runs until December 2029. Micael expressed his delight about joining the club he has admired since childhood. "I was very happy when I knew about the proposal from Palmeiras. It's a big team and I always wanted to play here. It's true [that I cheered for the club]. I have some Palmeiras jerseys. I always told my mother I would play here and she responded, 'Go for it.' Today, thanks to God, I'm here and feel very fulfilled," he shared.
Micael's passion for the club isn't just heartfelt; it translates to substantial experience and skill on the pitch. First making waves at Atlético-MG, he contributed to their success, albeit having limited appearances. He moved to the United States and excelled with Houston Dynamo, making 80 appearances and scoring three goals, which caught the attention of his new coach at Palmeiras, Abel Ferreira.
Ferreira has long sought to strengthen the defensive lineup with left-footed players, and Micael fits this bill perfectly. According to Micael, "I am a center-back who likes to play from the back, with passes inside and long balls. Those are the most important characteristics of my game." His arrival aims to address the club's gaps, especially after the departure of fellow defender Vitor Reis to Manchester City earlier this year.
The significance of Micael's signing expands beyond personal aspirations. With several competitions on the horizon, including the Campeonato Brasileiro, Copa do Brasil, and the prestigious Mundial, he acknowledges the heightened stakes. "This year is very important, not just for me, but for Palmeiras too; it's the year of the Mundial. Every Palmeiras fan expects a good season," he enthused.
Micael's integration with the team is bolstered by the club's training facilities, which he described as "sensational" after his first visit. "I was very impressed… It’s no wonder I decided to come here," he remarked, indicating his eagerness to contribute to the club's goals.
Joining Micael as new signings for 2025 are Bruno Fuchs, Emi Martínez, Paulinho, and Facundo Torres, showcasing Palmeiras' commitment to building a strong lineup. Currently, the club ranks fourth overall, with high aspirations for the upcoming season.
Palmeiras must optimize their roster for multiple competitions, and Micael will compete for playtime with established defenders like Gustavo Gómez and Murilo. His versatility and modern playstyle are expected to make significant contributions to the team's strategy and support their quest for trophies this season.