Quick Facts
Biography
Michel Souza da Silva (born August 22, 1986), known simply as Michel, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a striker.
Club career
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Michel moved to Portugal initially as a futsal player, but he switched to association football shortly after because of his physical strength and powerful shots. He started his career with F.C. Penafiel in the third division, scoring 13 goals in 32 games in his first season, which ended in promotion.
In mid-July 2011, after two more years with the club in the Segunda Liga, Michel signed for F.C. Paços de Ferreira in the Primeira Liga. During his only season, he ranked as team top scorer as they retained their division status, notably netting against Sporting Clube de Portugal (twice) and S.L. Benfica in two defeats.
On 31 May 2012, Michel moved to Benfica alongside Paços teammate Luisinho. On 31 August, however, he joined fellow league side S.C. Braga on loan, in a deal that saw Lima go in the opposite direction.
In late January 2013, Braga terminated Michel's loan early and he returned to Benfica. In August he went on loan again, now to Qatar's Al-Wakrah Sport Club.
Michel returned to Portugal on 1 September 2014, and the following 2 February he rejoined Penafiel, who now competed in the top level.