A Heartfelt Tribute from José Mourinho
José Mourinho, known for his passionate and often dramatic style, was visibly emotional during a press conference ahead of Fenerbahçe’s Champions League qualifier. The event took place just hours after the tragic news of the passing of Jorge Costa, the former Porto captain who had died at the age of 53.
Mourinho expressed deep sorrow and admiration for Costa, highlighting how the defender was an integral part of his history with Porto. He reflected on the unique relationship between them, emphasizing that while Costa was not always the official captain, he was undeniably a leader in the dressing room.
“It’s part of my history that goes,” Mourinho said, wiping away tears. “You have captains and you have leaders. It’s not always about the armband but what you represent. And Jorge was one of these guys who cleaned the garbage and let the coach do his job as a coach.”
Mourinho shared a memorable story from their time together, recalling a match where Costa had taken it upon himself to express frustration during half-time when the team was trailing 2-0. Instead of letting the tension escalate, Costa approached Mourinho and asked, “Coach us.” This moment marked a turning point, as Costa then scored two goals to help secure a 3-2 victory.
A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence
Jorge Costa was more than just a player; he was a symbol of dedication and leadership. His career spanned over 15 years at FC Porto, where he made 324 appearances across all competitions. During his time with the club, he won an impressive array of titles, including the UEFA Cup, eight Primeira Liga titles, the Intercontinental Cup, five Taca de Portugal trophies, and eight Super Cups.
Costa was instrumental in Porto’s historic Champions League win in 2004, leading the team through a grueling tournament that saw them defeat Manchester United, Lyon, and Deportivo La Coruña before defeating Monaco 3-0 in the final. His leadership on and off the pitch was unmatched, and he became a beloved figure among fans.
After retiring as a player, Costa continued to contribute to football by returning to Porto as a director of football in 2023. His journey as a manager saw him take charge of 17 different teams, showcasing his versatility and passion for the game.
A Tragic Passing
The news of Costa’s passing came as a shock to the football community. He suffered a cardiac arrest at Porto’s training center on Tuesday, following a series of health concerns. Reports indicated that he had previously experienced a heart attack in 2022 and had been complaining of intense heat after a television interview.
Porto’s medical team provided immediate care, using a defibrillator before transporting him to São João Hospital. Despite their efforts, Costa passed away in the early afternoon, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
Tributes from Around the Football World
The football world reacted swiftly to the news, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from clubs, players, and officials. FC Porto released a statement expressing their deep sadness and honoring Costa’s contributions to the club’s history. They described him as a figure who embodied dedication, leadership, and passion.
SC Braga, where Costa had also served as a coach, shared their grief, calling him a historic figure in Portuguese football. Charlton Athletic, where Costa had a brief loan spell, also paid tribute, expressing their condolences to his family and friends.
Cristiano Ronaldo took to Instagram to share a simple yet powerful message: “Goodbye, Jorge Costa.” UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin also honored Costa, describing him as a true warrior and a leader who inspired generations.
A Lasting Impact
Jorge Costa’s impact on football extended far beyond his playing days. As a leader, a mentor, and a role model, he left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. His passing is a profound loss for the football community, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and fellow players alike.
As Mourinho reflected on his own experiences with Costa, he emphasized the importance of moving forward while honoring the past. “That’s what I’m going to try and do, do my job today, do my job tomorrow and then cry after. But today and tomorrow I have a job to do and I know Jorge would tell me to do my job.”
In the end, Jorge Costa’s life and career serve as a reminder of the power of leadership, resilience, and passion in the world of football.