Jorge Costa, who captained Porto to the 2004 Champions League title, died Tuesday of cardiac arrest, the membership stated. He was 53.
Costa, a central defender who made 50 worldwide appearances for Portugal, was Porto’s director of soccer on the time of his demise.
The membership stated in its announcement that Costa embodied Porto’s values: “dedication, management, ardour, and an unwavering spirit of conquest.”
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Portuguese media reported that Costa suffered cardiac arrest on the membership’s coaching centre and was transported to São João Hospital.
Costa’s most interesting achievement in his enjoying profession was as captain of Jose Mourinho’s Porto staff that was a shock winner of the Champions League in 2004. A 12 months earlier, he lifted the second-tier UEFA Cup.
Costa additionally helped Porto win eight Portuguese league titles.
Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro supplied his condolences and praised Costa’s “dedication and dedication” to each Porto and the nationwide staff.
Jose Mourinho (r) speaks to Jorge Costa (l) throughout coaching in 2003. PA Photographs through Getty Photographs
Mourinho posted a tribute that stated “your legacy will stick with us”.
The Fenerbahce coach wrote that he may think about what Costa can be telling him: “Mister, cease crying, tomorrow you will have a match and your boys want you prepared and robust”.
Mourinho fought again tears talking about his former captain at a information convention earlier than Wednesday’s Champions League third-round tie towards Feyenoord.
“I’ll try to do my job immediately and tomorrow, after which I will cry after.”
Costa received 24 trophies earlier than leaving in 2005, together with the Champions League, Uefa Cup and eight Primeira Liga titles.
Deco, who was additionally a part of Porto’s Champions League-winning aspect, labelled Costa a “legendary captain”.
FC Porto’s Jorge Costa organizes his defence (Picture by Mike Egerton/EMPICS through Getty Photographs) PA Photographs through Getty Photographs
“Right now, Portuguese soccer and FC Porto lose certainly one of its biggest symbols,” Deco posted on Instagram.
“Jorge Costa was the embodiment of Porto’s spirit and willpower. A legendary captain who impressed us all.
“It was an honour to share so many titles and joys with you. Your identify will endlessly be remembered. My condolences to the whole household. See you at all times, ‘Bicho’.”
One other former teammate Pepe stated: “My deepest condolences to all your loved ones.
Costa was the soccer director of FC Porto. NurPhoto through Getty Photographs
“Your dedication and legacy will at all times stay within the unparalleled historical past of victories of FC Porto. Relaxation in peace, Jorge Costa.”
Costa spent a brief interval on mortgage at English staff Charlton within the 2001-02 season.
“To listen to of a life taken at 53 is rarely good to listen to, however he’s a former teammate who had such an amazing standing within the recreation and captained a Champions League profitable aspect,” stated Steve Brown, chair of Charlton’s ex-players’ affiliation.
“He was cherished at Charlton, a person mountain of a participant and an amazing man too.
“He was a incredible one who at all times received his level throughout.
“Everybody revered him due to his skill. He was an amazing lad.”
