
Jorge Costa: Former Porto Captain Dies Aged 53
Former Porto Captain Jorge Costa Dies Aged 53
FC Porto legend Jorge Costa, a Champions League-winning captain and iconic figure in Portuguese football, has tragically died at the age of 53 after suffering a cardiac arrest at Porto’s training centre.
The former defender, affectionately known as “Bicho”, made 324 appearances for the club and led them to Champions League glory under José Mourinho in 2004, as well as eight Primeira Liga titles, a UEFA Cup, and 24 trophies overall before retiring in 2006.
A Porto Symbol Remembered
“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,” said the club in an emotional statement.
“He left his mark on generations of fans.”
Costa was appointed as director of professional football at Porto last season, continuing his deep-rooted connection to the club following a long managerial career across 16 clubs in Portugal, Romania, Cyprus, India, Tunisia, and Gabon.
Tributes Pour In
Former Porto manager José Mourinho, now at Fenerbahce, was visibly emotional when speaking at a Champions League press conference ahead of their tie with Feyenoord.
“If he could speak with me now, he would say ‘do your press conference, play the game, and win – forget about me’,” said Mourinho, choking back tears.
“I’ll cry after.”
Teammates also paid their respects, including Deco, who called him a “legendary captain,” and Pepe, who said,
“Your dedication and legacy will always live in FC Porto’s unparalleled history of victories.”
Golden Ball Winner & Premier League Experience
In 2000, Costa won the Portuguese Golden Ball, awarded to the league’s best player.
After a fallout with Porto manager Octavio Machado, he joined Charlton Athletic on loan for the 2001-02 Premier League season, making 26 appearances.
Former Charlton manager Alan Curbishley paid tribute:
“He was a fantastic person who always got his point across. Everyone respected him because of his ability. He was a great lad.”
Another Tragedy for Porto
Costa’s death marks the third tragic loss of a former Porto player this summer, following the passing of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a car crash in July. Both had spent time at Porto earlier in their careers.
A Lasting Legacy
Born in Porto, Costa rose through the club’s youth ranks and served as a powerful symbol of Porto’s fighting spirit. Even in management, his leadership qualities were evident, as he coached clubs including Braga, Academica, Olhanense, and international sides in Africa and Asia.
As Portuguese football mourns, the memory of Jorge Costa remains forever etched in the hearts of fans and players.
“Your name will forever be remembered. See you always, Bicho.” – Deco
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