FC Porto has announced the passing of club legend and former captain Jorge Costa, who died at the age of 53 on Tuesday following a cardiac arrest at the club’s training ground.
In an official statement, the Portuguese club described Costa as “a key figure in the club’s history,” noting that he died after suffering a cardiopulmonary arrest. The former Portuguese international, who was serving as Porto’s Director of Professional Football, collapsed early Tuesday morning and was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Costa enjoyed a distinguished playing career at Porto, where he won eight Primeira Liga titles and was part of the squad that famously lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy in 2004 under coach José Mourinho. He also earned 50 caps for the Portuguese national team and was a prominent member of Portugal’s famed “Golden Generation,” which clinched the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 1991 alongside the likes of Luís Figo.
Tributes have poured in from across the Portuguese football community and beyond. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro described Costa’s death as a “shock” and praised him as “an example of dedication and commitment.”
Rival clubs Benfica and Sporting Lisbon also expressed their condolences. Benfica, in a statement, said, “Portuguese football has lost a great figure. Jorge Costa made his mark as a player, coach, and executive — he will be missed.”
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