1. Early Life and Playing Career
Eduardo González Valiño's football journey began in his native A Coruña, where he would become a local legend. His playing career spanned nearly two decades, marked by his dedication to clubs in his homeland and notable performances on the international stage.
1.1. Early Life and Club Debut
Born Eduardo González Valiño on April 14, 1911, in A Coruña, Galicia, Chacho began his professional football career at a young age. He made his debut with his hometown club, Deportivo de La Coruña, in 1927. This marked the beginning of a long association with the club, where he would spend the majority of his career as a player.
1.2. Club Career
Chacho's club career was primarily defined by two extensive periods with Deportivo de La Coruña. He first played for Deportivo from 1927 to 1934, establishing himself as a key player. Following this initial spell, he moved to Atlético de Madrid, where he played for two seasons between 1934 and 1936. After his time in Madrid, he returned to Deportivo de La Coruña in 1936 and continued to play for them until his retirement in 1946. His loyalty to Deportivo was significant, playing a total of 17 seasons across his two tenures with the club.
1.3. International Career
Eduardo González Valiño had a remarkable, albeit brief, international career with the Spain national football team. Despite earning only three caps, he managed to score an impressive seven goals, demonstrating his efficiency as a forward. His most notable performance came on May 21, 1933, in a friendly match against the Bulgaria national football team at Estadio Chamartín in Madrid. Chacho scored six goals in this match, contributing significantly to Spain's overwhelming 13-0 victory.
His other international goal was scored on March 11, 1934, also at Estadio Chamartín, in a 1934 FIFA World Cup qualification match against Portugal. This game, often referred to as the Iberian Derby, saw Spain secure a decisive 9-0 win, with Chacho scoring his side's first goal. He later participated in the 1934 FIFA World Cup held in Italy, representing Spain as a forward in the squad.
2. International Goals
Scores and results list Spain's goal tally first.
| No. | Date | Venue | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 21 May 1933 | Chamartín, Madrid, Spain | Bulgaria | 1-0 | 13-0 | Friendly |
| 3 | 2-0 | |||||
| 3 | 3-0 | |||||
| 4 | 9-0 | |||||
| 5 | 11-0 | |||||
| 6 | 13-0 | |||||
| 7 | 11 March 1934 | Chamartín, Madrid, Spain | Portugal | 1-0 | 9-0 | 1934 FIFA World Cup qualification |
3. Coaching Career
After concluding his distinguished playing career, Eduardo González Valiño transitioned into football management. His coaching roles were primarily with his beloved club, Deportivo de La Coruña, where he had spent many years as a player. He managed Deportivo on two separate occasions: first in 1942, and then for a longer spell from 1951 to 1952. While specific details of his managerial achievements are not extensively documented, his return to lead the team reflects his deep connection to the club and his continued involvement in football after retiring from playing.
4. Death and Legacy
Eduardo González Valiño's life concluded in his hometown, leaving behind a legacy recognized by the football community in A Coruña.
4.1. Death
Eduardo González Valiño passed away on October 21, 1979, in A Coruña, Galicia, Spain, the same city where he was born and began his illustrious football career.
4.2. Commemoration
In recognition of his significant contributions to Deportivo de La Coruña and Spanish football, a statue has been erected in honor of Eduardo González Valiño. This memorial is located near Estadio Riazor, Deportivo's home stadium, serving as a lasting tribute to "Chacho" for his enduring impact on the club and the sport.