The defender Michel Pereira Santos from Associação Atlética Portuguesa passed away this Sunday (17) due to a car accident in Bahia. The player, who was only 33 years old, had his death confirmed by the club, which announced deeply saddened an official mourning period of three days. The club's headquarters, located in Ilha do Governador, Rio de Janeiro, will fly its flag at half-mast in honor of the athlete.
Michel was born in Camamu, in southern Bahia, where he began his football career. Throughout his journey, he played for teams such as Colo Colo-BA, Serrano-BA, and Atlético-MG, until being signed by Ituano in 2016. In 2024, he joined the squad of Portuguesa-RJ, where he competed in the Campeonato Carioca.
Official statement from Portuguesa-RJ:
"We are deeply saddened by this irreparable loss and extend our sincerest condolences to the family, friends, and teammates of Michel. May God comfort all who had the privilege of knowing him."
The club president, Marcelo Barros, also expressed his sorrow on social media:
"An immense sadness. It's unbelievable that we just had our last conversation. Rest in peace, brother! I am very shaken."
Portuguesa-RJ emphasized that it will take action and immediately implement all necessary measures to support the player's family. Furthermore, it reaffirmed its commitment to solidarity with all its athletes, reinforcing its mission to care for each individual who is part of the club.
Michel, who had remarkable stints in Brazilian football, will be missed by his family, friends, and teammates. The Associação Atlética Portuguesa, in its final message, reinforced: "Our sentiments and our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and teammates during this moment of pain."
