Dieu-Merci Michel: Canada-Angola striker leaves Vitoria Guimaraes for United FC in UAE Pro League move

Canada-Angola centre-forward Dieu-Merci Michel has joined United FC in the UAE Pro League from Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes. The 22-year-old, who stands at 1.93m and plays primarily through the middle, moves to the United Arab Emirates after building his reputation in Portugal’s professional leagues.

Michel arrives at United FC on the back of steady exposure to top-flight and second-tier Portuguese football. Splitting his time between Vitoria Guimaraes and loan club Leiria, he featured across the Liga Portugal, Liga Portugal 2 and domestic cup competitions, gaining experience in league, cup and play-off environments as well as a brief outing in European competition.

Used predominantly as a central striker, the right-footed forward produced goals in several competitions in Portugal. Across league, cup and play-off matches, he found the net in Liga Portugal’s top division, in Liga Portugal 2 and in the Taca de Portugal, where he also contributed assists during his time with Leiria. He also made an appearance in the Europa Conference League, adding continental minutes to his CV.

Michel’s move to United FC follows a pathway that began in youth and academy football before he graduated through Vitoria’s youth structure to their B team and then the first team. His market valuation most recently stood at €500,000, reflecting his progress through Portugal’s professional ranks.

The dual-national forward now swaps Portuguese football for the UAE Pro League, completing a transfer that sees him leave Vitoria Guimaraes to spearhead the attack at United FC.