Venerated Ex-Captain of Porto Football Club, Jorge Costa, Dies at 53 Years Old
Remembering Jorge Costa: A Legendary Figure in Porto and Beyond
Jorge Costa, a towering figure in Portuguese football, passed away at the age of 53 following a cardiac arrest at FC Porto's training facility in 2025. Known for his unwavering leadership and defensive prowess, Costa was best remembered as the captain of FC Porto's Champions League-winning team in 2004 under José Mourinho.
During his illustrious playing career, Costa donned the FC Porto jersey for 383 games, mostly from 1990 to 2005. He was a key player in a squad that won 24 trophies for the club, including the Champions League, UEFA Cup, and eight Primeira Liga titles. Costa also earned 50 caps for the Portugal national team. In 2000, he was awarded the Portuguese Golden Ball, recognizing him as the league's best player.
After retiring from professional football in 2006, Costa transitioned into management, leading 16 different clubs across Portugal, Romania, Cyprus, Tunisia, India, and Gabon. His managerial journey took him around the world, impacting football cultures and leaving a lasting legacy.
In Portugal, Costa was a symbol of FC Porto's golden era, renowned for his leadership, toughness, and winning multiple domestic and European trophies. Beyond the borders of his home country, Costa made a significant impact. In India, he coached Mumbai City FC, a leading club in the Indian Super League, helping develop football in a growing market. In Romania, Cyprus, Tunisia, and Gabon, he brought his expertise as a coach, influencing football cultures across Europe and Africa.
Costa's death deeply saddened the football community. Tributes poured in, highlighting his legacy as a warrior and leader in the sport. FC Porto paid tribute to Costa, stating he embodied the values that define the club: dedication, leadership, passion, and an unshakeable spirit of conquest. Costa's impact on football will be remembered for generations to come, extending beyond Portugal and leaving a substantial impact on football both domestically and internationally.
[1] FC Porto - Official Website [2] Portugal Football Federation - Official Website [3] Mumbai City FC - Official Website [4] CFR Cluj - Official Website [5] AEL Limassol - Official Website
Jorge Costa left an indelible mark on European leagues, serving as a successful manager in several countries, from Romania and Cyprus to India and Gabon, changing the face of football in each of these countries. As a crucial player during FC Porto's successful run in the Champions League, he contributed significantly to sports analysis, providing memorable moments in international football.
