In Benfica's back-to-back Primeira Liga wins from 1971 to 1973, José Henrique was instrumental in helping the squad attain its defensive record: 60 matches with only one loss and 29 goals conceded. He had to share first-choice duties in the next years with another club great, Manuel Bento, eventually losing his position in 1976 after having won eight leagues and three cups; he also appeared in the 1967–68 European Cup final, lost 1–4 to Manchester United in extra time.