Luis Fernández

Defensive midfielder and manager who won Euro 1984 with France and led PSG to European glory.

Luis Miguel Fernández Toledo (born 2 October 1959), known as Luis Fernandez, is a former professional football manager and player who played as a defensive midfielder. He spent most of his playing career for Paris Saint-Germain, earned 60 international caps and scored 6 goals for the France national team between 1982 and 1992, and was part of their teams that won UEFA Euro 1984 and came third at the 1986 FIFA World Cup. Fernandez managed PSG in two spells, winning several domestic and European honours. He also managed Cannes and Reims in France, and Athletic Bilbao, Espanyol and Real Betis in La Liga.

Quick Facts

Full name: Luis Miguel Fernández Toledo
Born: 2 October 1959
Birthplace: Tarifa, Spain
Height: 1.78 m / 5 ft 10 in
Position: Defensive midfielder
Total caps: 377
Total goals: 38

Lore & Background

Fernandez was born in Tarifa, Spain, and moved to France with his parents at age nine. He began playing football at AS Minguettes and became a naturalized French citizen in 1981. He signed his first professional contract at age 19 with Paris Saint-Germain. After the 1986 World Cup and winning Division 1 with PSG, he joined Racing Club de Paris, but left after three seasons. He then joined Cannes in 1989, and after relegation to Ligue 2, he finished his playing career as player-manager, leading Cannes back to Division 1. He retired from playing to become a full-time manager.

Reader's Guide

Fernandez quickly established himself as an expert in winning the ball and capable of precise passing. He debuted for France on 10 November 1982 against the Netherlands. He formed the 'magic square' midfield with Jean Tigana, Alain Giresse, and Michel Platini. He won UEFA Euro 1984 and reached the semi-final of the 1986 World Cup. Under manager Michel Platini, he played as a late substitute, helping France qualify for UEFA Euro 1992. He took part in Euro 1992, where France were eliminated in the group stage, and then ended his international career.