Distributed microgrid systems represent the next generation of smart grids. It will allow the development of electrical networks in rural or isolated areas without sophisticated infrastructures. However, achieving energy management and power exchange among microgrids (MGs) is the main challenge, which needs to be addressed. For instance, it is required to keep the ability of each MG to feed its own load as long as possible while maintaining the state of the charge (SoC) on the safety limits. This paper introduces an advanced control for energy management in distributed MG systems. First, a strategy, using predictive functional control techniques, is developed within each MG system. Results are reported to show its effectiveness for standalone MG control. A power exchange algorithm is then developed for distributed energy management of MG systems. Simulations on Matlab/Simulink have been conducted, and results are reported to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in managing energy-flows exchange between MG systems. It is mainly based on several indicators, in particular the power consumption of each MGs, the battery SoC, and the power generated by renewable energy sources.