The legendary former FC Porto captain, Jorge Costa, has died at the age of 53 after suffering a cardiac arrest at the club’s training centre, according to BBC Sport.
A commanding centre-back known for his tenacity and leadership, Costa captained Porto to UEFA Champions League glory under José Mourinho in 2004 and earned 50 caps for Portugal during a distinguished playing career.
His sudden death marks the third loss of a former Porto player this summer, following the tragic deaths of Diogo Jota (on loan) and his brother André Silva.
Costa came through Porto’s youth ranks and made 324 appearances for the first team, winning an impressive 24 trophies, including the Champions League, UEFA Cup, and eight Primeira Liga titles.
He also had a brief spell in the Premier League with Charlton Athletic during the 2001–02 season, where he played 26 matches on loan.
Following his retirement from professional football in 2006, Costa transitioned into management, taking charge of 16 clubs across Portugal, Romania, Cyprus, Tunisia, India, and Gabon. He returned to Porto last season, taking up the position of director of professional football.
In a heartfelt statement, FC Porto described him as the embodiment of the club’s values: “dedication, leadership, passion, and an unshakeable spirit of conquest.” The club added, “He left his mark on generations of fans.”
His former coach at Porto, José Mourinho, now managing Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, was visibly emotional when addressing the media before his team’s Champions League qualifier against Feyenoord. Fighting back tears, he said, “If he could talk to me now, he’d say: ‘Do your press conference, play the match, win the game – forget about me.’ I’ll try to do my job today and tomorrow, and then I’ll cry after.”
Costa was also remembered fondly by former teammates. Deco, who played alongside him during Porto’s European triumph, hailed him as a “legendary captain” and wrote on Instagram, “Jorge Costa was the embodiment of Porto’s spirit and determination… Your name will forever be remembered. See you always, ‘Bicho’.”
Veteran defender Pepe added, “Your dedication and legacy will always live in the unparalleled history of victories of FC Porto. Rest in peace, Jorge Costa.”
In 2000, Costa received the Portuguese Golden Ball, awarded to the top player in the domestic league.
However, a fallout with then-Porto coach Octávio Machado led to his loan move to Charlton, where former manager Alan Curbishley recalled him as a “fantastic person” and “a great lad” who commanded respect.
Costa began his managerial journey with Braga, who also expressed deep sorrow at his passing, saying it had “shaken the entire national sporting community.”
From player to manager to club executive, Jorge Costa’s life was interwoven with FC Porto’s history. His legacy, both on and off the pitch, leaves an indelible mark on Portuguese football.
