Inter Miami CF announced on Wednesday the signing of Brazilian center-back Micael dos Santos, who arrives on loan from Palmeiras with an option to buy at the end of the 2026 MLS season.
The reinforcement aims to strengthen one of the most vulnerable areas of the Florida team, which, while boasting offensive firepower with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, has shown defensive weaknesses in recent seasons.
Who is Micael dos Santos, Inter Miami’s new signing?
Micael dos Santos, 25, has experience in both South American soccer and Major League Soccer (MLS).
Career in MLS and Brazil
- He arrived in MLS in 2022 with the Houston Dynamo
- He played for Palmeiras after leaving the Texas club in 2025.
- Trained at Atlético Mineiro, where he won multiple titles
With Atlético Mineiro, Dos Santos won:
- 2021 Brazilian Championship
- 2021 Brazil Cup
- Mineiro Championship 2021 and 2022
- 2022 Brazilian Supercup
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His record against Inter Miami in the Club World Cup
The Brazilian center-back already knows what it’s like to face Inter Miami, having played against the U.S. club in the first phase of the Club World Cup—a match that ended 2-2 and secured both teams’ qualification for the round of 16.
That meeting left the Inter Miami coaching staff with good vibes, and they’re now pushing for his permanent signing.
Inter Miami strengthens its weakest point: the defense.
The arrival of Micael dos Santos addresses the club’s need to improve its defensive solidity, an aspect that has raised concerns despite the outstanding offensive performance led by Messi and Suárez.
This move adds to the recent signing of Dayne St. Clair, recognized as the best goalkeeper in the last MLS season, confirming the club’s intention to balance its squad ahead of the 2026 season.
