Born in Barreiro, Setúbal District, Carvalho started playing football with local Luso Futebol Clube, transferring in 1958 to Sporting CP where he remained the following 12 years, winning five major titles.

He retired in 1972 at the age of 35 after a spell with neighbouring Atlético Clube de Portugal, subsequently returning to Sporting as a goalkeeper coach.

[3] Carvalho played six times with the Portugal national team, making his debut on 31 October 1965 in a 0–0 draw with Czechoslovakia in the 1966 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

[4][1] Selected for the finals in England, he featured in the opener against Hungary (3–1 win in Manchester) but lost his place to C.F.

Os Belenenses' José Pereira for the remainder of the tournament, with the country finishing in third place.