Humberto Coelho

Humberto Manuel de Jesus Coelho (born 20 April 1950) is a retired Portuguese footballer and manager.

In a career mainly associated with Benfica, the central defender also competed professionally in France and the United States, during a 16-year career. He gained more than 60 caps for Portugal, being the player with the most appearances for several years.

Coelho worked as a manager since 1985, also being in charge of several national teams including his own.

Playing career

Born in Cedofeita, Porto, Coelho was regarded as one of the best stoppers in Portuguese football, imposing himself in Lisbon-based S.L. Benfica's first team at the age of 18 – four years later, he had already played in 101 Primeira Liga matches for the Eagles. On 27 October 1968, he made his debut for Portugal, in a 3–0 win over Romania for the 1970 FIFA World Cup qualifying stages; during the next 15 years, he would appear in a further 63 internationals, scoring six goals.

From 1975 and during two seasons, Coelho played abroad with Paris Saint-Germain FC, continuing to display the traditional offensive penchant in spite of his position as he netted six times, although the side could only finish in 14th position in Ligue 1.