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Jesualdo FerreiraHead coach of the Portuguese club "Porto"
Country:
 Portugal |
Content:
- Jesualdo Ferreira: A Masterful Coach and Football Legend
- Coaching Beginnings
- International Experience
- Domestic Success
- Breakthrough with Braga
- Historic Treble with Porto
- Relocation to Spain and Greece
- Second Stint at Braga and Return to Sporting
- Adventure in Brazil
Jesualdo Ferreira: A Masterful Coach and Football Legend
Early Life and EducationJesualdo Ferreira was born in Portugal but spent his early childhood in Angola with his parents. In his adolescence, he returned to his homeland with his uncle to pursue an education. Ferreira studied in Chaves, regularly visiting his family in Carvalhais during his studies. After completing his education, he moved to Lisbon, where he played for amateur football clubs.
Coaching Beginnings
Upon retiring from his playing career, Ferreira obtained his coaching license. He taught at Lisbon's Higher Institute of Physical Education and embarked on his coaching journey in 1981 with Rio Maior. Ferreira subsequently led Torreense and Académica, guiding the latter to a 7th-place finish in the Portuguese league. He also managed Atlético Alcochete and Estrela, which he led to relegation to the second division.
International Experience
Ferreira ventured into the international sphere, coaching the Moroccan club FAR Rabat. In 1989, he assumed the helm of the Angola national team. In 1996, he took over as head coach of Portugal's U-23 team, working with notable players such as Maniche.
Domestic Success
In 2000, Ferreira joined Alverca and guided them to 12th place in the Portuguese league. The following season, he briefly led Benfica but was dismissed after a string of setbacks, including a cup defeat to third-tier Gondomar.
Breakthrough with Braga
Ferreira's career took a significant turn when he took charge of Braga in 2003. He transformed the club, guiding them to two fourth-place finishes and a fifth-place finish during his three-year tenure.
Historic Treble with Porto
After leaving Braga, Ferreira joined Boavista but never coached an official game. Porto approached him with a two-year contract, and he assumed their reins in 2006. Ferreira led Porto to an unprecedented three consecutive Portuguese league titles. He also steered them to the Champions League quarterfinals in 2010.
Relocation to Spain and Greece
In 2010, Ferreira signed a three-year deal with Spanish club Malaga. However, he was dismissed after less than five months due to poor results. He subsequently took over at Greek club Panathinaikos.
Second Stint at Braga and Return to Sporting
Following his departure from Greece, Ferreira returned to Braga in 2013. He also became the manager of Lisbon-based Sporting in the same year. In 2015, he left Braga once more and signed with Egyptian giants Zamalek.
Adventure in Brazil
In 2019, Ferreira moved to Brazil to coach Santos. Unfortunately, his tenure ended in disappointment, as he was dismissed in 2020 following a defeat in the São Paulo state championship.
