Widely regarded as one of the greatest talents of his era in Portuguese football, the diminutive left winger's main asset was his ball control and dribbling skills.

Born in Barreiro, Setúbal District, Chalana began his football career at Barreirense, then moved to Lisbon neighbours Benfica in 1974, where he established himself the following eight years, scoring and assisting alike as he helped them conquer, amongst other accolades, five Primeira Liga and three Taça de Portugal trophies.

There, the Little Genius[6] was one of the team's leading figures, excelling in dribbling throughout the tournament, notably in the 3–2 semi-final loss against the hosts, setting up both goals for Rui Jordão.

[7][8] Moving to a club in that country after the tournament, Bordeaux, Chalana failed to impress over three full seasons, mainly due to persistent injuries.

[15] In 2002, he had already had a one-game spell as interim, filling in for the dismissed Jesualdo Ferreira – days before precisely Camacho arrived; in that match he placed winger Miguel as a right-back, where he ultimately gained worldwide recognition.