Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho are amongst these to have paid tribute to Porto’s Champions League-winning captain Jorge Costa, who has died aged 53 after struggling a cardiac arrest on the Portuguese membership’s coaching floor.
Costa, who led Porto to UEFA Cup glory in 2003 and a Champions League triumph a 12 months later underneath Mourinho, was in his second season serving because the Liga Portugal membership’s director of soccer. He was rushed to hospital however couldn’t be saved.
The defender earned 50 caps for Portugal’s nationwide group and amassed greater than 500 senior profession appearances, the bulk enjoying for Porto.
Ronaldo paid tribute to his compatriot on social media, posting an image of Costa with the road “Ate sempre Jorge Costa”, which interprets as ‘Until Forever’ or ‘Always’.
Fenerbahce boss Mourinho, who fought again tears at a press convention forward of his facet’s Champions League third-round qualifying tie towards Feyenoord on Wednesday, mentioned: “I’m very unhappy. It is part of my historical past that goes.
“If he may communicate with me now he would say ‘do your press conference, tomorrow play the game mister and win the game – forget about me’.
“I’m going to try and do my job today and tomorrow, and then I’ll cry after.”
Costa gained 24 trophies in his time at Porto, together with eight Primeira Liga titles. He was considered one of six gamers to win 5 consecutive Portuguese top-flight league championships.
He had quick spell in England with Charlton Athletic, making 26 appearances after arriving on mortgage throughout the 2001/2002 season.
“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,” Porto mentioned in an announcement. “He left his mark on generations of fans and became a symbol of Portismo.”
“Jorge Costa’s legacy will always remain alive in the memory of all Porto fans. You will never be forgotten, Captain.”
Two different former Porto and Portugal gamers, Deco and Pepe, additionally paid tribute to the participant.
Deco known as Costa considered one of Portuguese soccer’s “greatest symbols”, including: “It was an honour to share so many titles and joys with you. Your name will forever be remembered. My condolences to the entire family.”
Meanwhile, Pepe mentioned: “Your dedication and legacy will always live in the unparalleled history of victories of FC Porto. Rest in peace, Jorge Costa.”
