If that's the case, I'd argue we're conflating software development management with software engineering execution. It's illogical to assert that utilizing microservices implies entirely forgoing centralization.

I agree with you. In my defense, people who want microservices are generally asking for developer autonomy, but just using technical language to do it, rather than managerial.

I can believe that. This is why it's so crucial to have good management. I've also realized through my own experience that a good manager has to be in the trenches coding with his/her reports, at least part of the time. It's amazing how fast you can become irrelevant when you're unplugged and stuff like this is exactly why.