After starting as a manager with both Nogueirense junior and main team, Vale moved in 1989 to FC Porto, spending eighteen years in charge of its junior side.
In 1994, Vale was appointed Technical Coordinator around the youth football of FC Porto, being responsible for the development and operation of the project.
In the 1999-2000 season, Vale was appointed as assistant coach of the main squad. He also managed FC Porto B, the reserve team of Porto, between 2000 and 2004.
He left Porto in 2006 after winning 27 titles with the juniors squads.