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 below 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 staff 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 ‘Till Perpetually’ or ‘All the time’.
Fenerbahce boss Mourinho, who fought again tears at a press convention forward of his aspect’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 might converse with me now he would say ‘do your press convention, tomorrow play the sport mister and win the sport – overlook about me’.
“I’m going to attempt to do my job immediately and tomorrow, after which I’ll cry after.”
Costa received 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 through the 2001/2002 season.
“All through his life, each on and off the pitch, Jorge Costa embodied the values that outline FC Porto: dedication, management, ardour and an unshakeable spirit of conquest,” Porto mentioned in a press release. “He left his mark on generations of followers and have become an emblem of Portismo.”
“Jorge Costa’s legacy will all the time stay alive within the reminiscence of all Porto followers. You’ll by no means 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 “biggest symbols”, including: “It was an honour to share so many titles and joys with you. Your identify will eternally be remembered. My condolences to the complete household.”
In the meantime, Pepe mentioned: “Your dedication and legacy will all the time dwell within the unparalleled historical past of victories of FC Porto. Relaxation in peace, Jorge Costa.”
