Janos Kalmar Hungarian footballer, striker and coach. Date of Birth: 21.03.1908 Country: Hungary

1. Jeno Kalmar: Hungarian Football Legend
2. Early Career at Hungaria
3. International Debut and Injury
4. Success with Hungaria and Departure to France
5. Coaching Career in Hungary and National Team
6. Triumphant Years with Gonved
7. Emigration and International Coaching
8. Wanderer in Spain and Beyond
9. Later Years

Jeno Kalmar: Hungarian Football Legend

Jeno Kalmar was a renowned Hungarian footballer and coach who made significant contributions to the sport.

Early Career at Hungaria

Kalmar's career began with Hungaria in the late 1920s, where he showcased his skills as a midfielder and forward. His exceptional long-range shots, both accurate and powerful, earned him high regard. In 1929, Hungaria clinched the Hungarian championship for the first time since Kalmar's arrival, and he emerged as the league's top scorer with 19 goals.

International Debut and Injury

Kalmar made his international debut for Hungary in 1928 against Austria. He scored his first goal for his country in 1929 against Czechoslovakia. However, a severe leg injury in October 1929 sidelined him for almost a year.

Success with Hungaria and Departure to France

After recovering fully, Kalmar helped Hungaria win the Hungarian Cup in 1932. In 1933, he departed for France, joining Excelcior Roubaix. Despite securing a fifth place finish in his first season there, the club struggled in subsequent years.

Coaching Career in Hungary and National Team

After returning to Hungary, Kalmar became a player-manager for Kistext. He was also an assistant for the Hungarian national team during World War II. Post-war, he led Csepel to their only Hungarian championship title in 1947-1948.

Triumphant Years with Gonved

In 1951, Kalmar took over as manager of Honved, which boasted star players like Ferenc Puskas and Sandor Kocsis. Under his guidance, the team won three Hungarian championships in four years.

Emigration and International Coaching

In 1956, Honved defected to Spain and Kalmar was left without a club. He applied for the position of Austria's national team coach but was unsuccessful. In 1957, he took over at Vienna's Wacker, leading them to a respectable fourth place finish.

Wanderer in Spain and Beyond

Kalmar spent much of his time in Spain, coaching numerous clubs, including Sevilla, Granada, and Espanyol. He also managed Israeli side Hapoel and Portuguese giants Porto.

Later Years

In his later years, Kalmar worked with Halmstad in Sweden and several other Spanish clubs. He left behind a legacy as a skilled footballer and a visionary coach who made significant contributions to the sport of football.