Fernando Chalana: Benfica’s legendary ‘Little Genius’ | OneFootball

Fernando Chalana would be 67 years old today. The former midfielder of Benfica, one of the most remarkable players in the Club's history, remains an undeniable reference for several generations of fans, not only for his talent but also for the way he lived the game and represented the red emblem.

Trained at Benfica, Chalana made his debut in the first team at a very young age and quickly established himself as a different player. His short stature contrasted with his enormous technical ability, speed of execution, and ease with which he disrupted opponents one-on-one, becoming a decisive piece in the red attack during the late 1970s and early 80s.

On the international stage, he experienced the peak of his career at the 1984 European Championship, serving the National Team. His performances in France put him in the spotlight of European football and earned him a transfer to Bordeaux, making him one of the first Portuguese players to establish himself in a major foreign league.

Chalana would later return to Benfica, reuniting with Luz at a different stage of his career, but always maintaining a deep connection with the Club. After finishing his career as a player, he remained connected to football and Benfica, taking on technical roles and mentoring younger players.

Nearly four years after his death, Fernando Chalana holds a unique place in the red history. His name is synonymous with creativity, irreverence, and pure talent, values that continue to be associated with Benfica - which has a Mourinho target surrounded by controversy - and make the “little genius” an eternal figure in the Club's imagination.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.