Michel is back in MLS with a clear mission
Michel said he is back in MLS with a clear mission: to help Real Salt Lake stand out in the competition. And let’s be honest, RSL needs a savior. The team, struggling to stay competitive, sees Michel as a beacon of hope to revitalize its attack. Real Salt Lake fans might be skeptical—after all, one goal in 19 games isn’t exactly a stellar resume. But who knows? Michel might just turn out to be the missing piece in RSL’s puzzle.
Benji Michel’s return to MLS isn’t just a homecoming; it’s a shot at redemption. He knows he needs to prove his worth again, both to his critics and himself. And there’s no better place to do that than on the fields where he has already made his mark. Real Salt Lake is betting on Michel’s ability to quickly adapt and regain the form that made him a standout at Orlando City.
Of course, there are those who question whether Benji Michel is really the reinforcement Real Salt Lake needs. Michel has the chance to turn skepticism into admiration, showing he still has plenty to offer. And who knows? Maybe this return is exactly what he needs to get back on the scoring track and help Real Salt Lake reach new heights.
Real Salt Lake chose to be proactive instead of reactive by bringing in forward Benji Michel with a few big games coming up on the schedule.
RSL traded for Michel’s MLS Right of First Refusal from Orlando City SC in exchange for the better 2025 second-round draft selection and $50,000 in 2026 general allocation money.
The move from Real comes shortly after it was announced that star forward Chicho Arango would serve a four-game suspension.
The 26-year-old Haitian forward spent the last two years with FC Arouca in Portugal.
Prior to that, Michel played 50 games with Orlando City over four seasons. He recorded 15 goals and 5 assists during his time in the MLS.
Michel’s new contract with RSL is guaranteed through the end of the season with club options in 2025 and 2026.
“It’s an honor to join such an amazing organization like RSL,” Michel said. “The excitement and the projection this team is on right now just makes me want to give it my all for the crest. The culture within the group is just phenomenal.”
