Top-scorer Michael leaves Flamengo boss Renato Gaúcho spoilt for choice | OneFootball

Renato Gaúcho has admitted that Michael’s terrific form for Flamengo is likely to give him a welcome “headache” in the weeks to come.

The 25-year-old scored twice either side of half time as the Rubro-Negro eased to a comfortable win over 10-man São Paulo on Sunday.

Gabriel Barbosa and Bruno Henrique had put the visitors 2-0 ahead inside the opening four minutes before matters got even worse for the Tricolor Paulista when striker Jonathan Calleri was dismissed in just the 10th minute at the Morumbi.

Michael’s brace brought his tally for the Brasileirão to 13 goals so far this season, making him the league’s top scorer.

It also ensured his 100th appearance for the Mengão was even more memorable from a personal viewpoint.

Asked if Michael can expect to keep his place in the starting XI when Giorgian de Arrascaeta returns from injury, Flamengo boss Gaúcho gave a non-committal response.

“With each game Michael has been growing in production. We hope that Arrascaeta can recover,” Gaúcho told his post-match press conference.

“I repeat: it is to follow our schedule. This is the coach’s headache – finished.”

Sunday’s win moved Flamengo to within eight points of leaders Atlético Mineiro with just seven games remaining.