Filipe Luís tests Michael as holding midfielder amid Flamengo absences and Santos talks | OneFootball

Filipe Luís said after Flamengo’s win over Vasco that Michael spent the week training as a holding midfielder, offering a short-term option amid absences. According to Globo.com, the forward is also in talks with Santos.

He considered using Léo or Michael there, but with a man advantage kept a sturdier shape with Léo effectively forming a back three. He stressed Léo is a centre-back and would only step into midfield in an emergency. Vitão is competing with Danilo, Léo Pereira and Léo Ortiz.

The trial is not viewed as permanent, it reflects fitness issues elsewhere. Jorginho had dental treatment and missed the clássico. Saúl is out for months after ankle surgery. De la Cruz has a managed workload. Allan, on the list of negotiables, was not selected.

Filipe often tests solutions in training, last year he used Everton Cebolinha as a number 10 when options were thin. Michael has been praised for his training despite limited minutes. He ended 2025 with 29 appearances, 15 starts, two goals and four assists.

Michael, not in Flamengo’s plans after losing ground last season, has terms agreed to join Santos, but a pending issue with Flamengo remains. He is seeking an unpaid signing-on fee from his 2024 return under Rodolfo Landim. Flamengo are not resisting a departure, yet the dispute is considered significant and, unless he waives it, the move will not progress.

Source: Globo.com