Former Porto Captain Jorge Costa Dies at 53

Former FC Porto captain Jorge Costa has died at the age of 53 after suffering a cardiac arrest at the club's training centre. The Portuguese international, who famously led Porto to Champions League glory in 2004 under José Mourinho, passed away on Tuesday, leaving the football world in mourning.

Costa, a commanding centre-back, was a pivotal figure for Porto, making 324 appearances and winning a remarkable 24 trophies. His leadership qualities were widely admired, and he earned 50 caps for Portugal during his playing career. He also had a brief spell in the Premier League, playing for Charlton Athletic on loan during the 2001-02 season.

A Porto Legend Remembered

FC Porto released a statement expressing their profound sadness at Costa's passing. "Throughout his life, both on and off the pitch, Jorge Costa embodied the values that define FC Porto: dedication, leadership, passion and an unshakeable spirit of conquest," the club stated. "He left his mark on generations of fans."

The news comes as a further blow to the Porto community, following the recent deaths of former players Diogo Jota and Andre Silva in July. The circumstances surrounding those deaths remain separate and unrelated to Costa's cardiac arrest.

Mourinho's Emotional Tribute

José Mourinho, currently manager of Fenerbahce, was visibly emotional when addressing the media ahead of his team's Champions League qualifying match against Feyenoord. Mourinho managed Costa at Porto from 2002 to 2004, forging a strong bond with the defender. "If he could speak with me now he would say 'do your press conference, tomorrow play the game mister and win the game - forget about me'," Mourinho said, fighting back tears. "I'm going to try and do my job today and tomorrow, and then I'll cry after."

Speaking to BBC Sport, football analyst and former Premier League defender, Danny Higginbotham, highlighted Costa's influence. "Costa wasn't just a defender; he was a leader of men. He instilled a winning mentality within that Porto side, a team that punched well above its weight in European competition. His partnership with Ricardo Carvalho was the foundation upon which Mourinho built his success."

A Career of Triumphs

Costa's career was defined by success at Porto. He graduated from the club's academy and went on to captain the side to unprecedented heights. Among his numerous accolades were eight Primeira Liga titles, the UEFA Cup in 2003, and the Champions League in 2004. He was also awarded the Portuguese Golden Ball in 2000, recognizing him as the league's best player.

8 Primeira Liga Titles 1 UEFA Cup (2003) 1 Champions League (2004) Portuguese Golden Ball (2000)

Deco, a key member of that Champions League-winning Porto team, paid tribute to his former captain on social media, calling him a "legendary captain" and referring to him by his nickname "Bicho" (bug). "Today, Portuguese football and FC Porto lose one of its greatest symbols," Deco wrote. "Jorge Costa was the embodiment of Porto's spirit and determination. A legendary captain who inspired us all."

Brief Stint in England

After a falling out with then-Porto coach Octavio Machado, Costa joined Charlton Athletic on loan in 2001. He made 26 appearances for the Addicks, impressing with his defensive solidity and leadership qualities. Former Charlton manager Alan Curbishley remembered Costa fondly. "He was a fantastic person who always got his point across," Curbishley said. "Everyone respected him because of his ability. He was a great lad."

From Player to Manager

Following his retirement from playing in 2006, Costa transitioned into management. He held positions at 16 different clubs, including spells in Portugal, Romania, Cyprus, Tunisia, India, and Gabon. His managerial career, while extensive, did not reach the same heights as his playing days.

His first managerial role was with Braga, who also expressed their condolences. "Braga cannot help but share in the enormous grief felt by his family, his friends and the entire FC Porto organisation," the club said in a statement.

The passing of Jorge Costa marks a significant loss for Portuguese football and the wider football community. He will be remembered as a true leader, a fierce competitor, and a Porto legend.