- Fenerbahçe boss José Mourinho has been left heartbroken by the passing of Jorge Costa
- Costa, who famously captained Mourinho’s 2004 UEFA Champions League-winning Porto side, died from cardiac arrest on Tuesday, August 5
- The 53-year-old was widely respected for his leadership and later took up a career in football management after hanging up his boots
Jose Mourinho has been left devastated following the unexpected passing of Jorge Costa, a legend of FC Porto and his former captain.
The heartbreaking news came as a shock to the football world, especially for the man who shared some of his greatest triumphs with the late defender.
Source: Getty Images
Jose Mourinho mourns as Jorge Costa dies from cardiac arrest
Jorge Costa, who wore the captain’s armband during Porto’s unforgettable UEFA Champions League triumph in 2004 under Mourinho, died after suffering cardiac arrest. He was 53.
According to The Independent, emergency services rushed him to the hospital, but despite their efforts, he could not be saved.
At the time of his death, he was serving in his second year as Porto’s Director of Professional Football.
The weight of the news clearly hit Mourinho hard. During a pre-match press briefing ahead of Fenerbahce’s UEFA Champions League clash with Feyenoord, the veteran manager struggled to hold back his emotions.
A video circulating on social media, seen by YEN.com.gh, captured the emotional moment as the Special One broke into tears.
Through the pain, he managed to pay tribute to the man he once led from the touchline, praising Costa’s influence as a leader and presence in the dressing room.
Watch the video:
Before facing the media, Mourinho had already expressed his grief with a heartfelt post on Instagram.
He shared a photo of himself alongside Costa during their time at Porto and wrote:
“I know what you would say now if you could: ‘Mister, stop crying, tomorrow you have a match, and your boys need you ready and strong. I promise you, BICHO, I am going to do it. RIP because your legacy stays with us.”
Jose Mourinho’s relationship with Jorge Costa
Their relationship was forged in victory.
Together, they conquered Europe, winning five major trophies, including back-to-back Liga Portugal titles and that iconic Champions League crown in 2004.
With sorrow in his heart but determination in his eyes, Mourinho will lead Fenerbahçe into their first official game of the 2025-26 campaign.
The Turkish giants face Feyenoord in the first leg of the Champions League third qualifying round, and for Mourinho, this match now carries extra emotional weight.
Jorge Costa’s career and football legacy
Costa’s legacy goes far beyond just Porto.
A proud graduate of the club’s youth system, he spent 15 years with the senior side, tallying 383 appearances in all competitions.
In total, his playing career spanned 530 games, including 50 caps for Portugal.
He was part of the national team that reached the semi-finals of Euro 2000 and even netted twice for the Selecao.
After hanging up his boots, Costa ventured into coaching, taking up roles in Portugal, Cyprus, and India.
He also managed the Gabon national team for two years.
Source: YEN.com.gh
