Mansion Sports – The football world is once again in mourning. José Mourinho, the former manager of Real Madrid and FC Porto, was visibly emotional during a press conference on Tuesday as he paid tribute to his former player, Jorge Costa, who passed away from a heart attack at the age of 53.

Mourinho, who shared both a professional and deeply personal bond with Costa during their time at FC Porto—particularly during their UEFA Champions League triumph in 2004—described the former defender as an irreplaceable figure in his life. 

Costa’s passing has left a profound void not only for the Portuguese club, but also for Mourinho, who referred to him as an integral part of his life’s story.

Jorge Costa’s Longstanding Career and Devotion to Football

Jorge Costa was widely known as a commanding central defender who enjoyed a distinguished playing career spanning 19 years. 

The majority of his professional life was spent at FC Porto, where he made over 300 appearances and became a symbol of loyalty and resilience.

Costa also had brief stints with Charlton Athletic and Standard Liège during loan spells, before officially retiring from playing in 2006. 

His passion for football, however, did not wane after retirement. Costa transitioned seamlessly into management, spending the next 17 years coaching various clubs, primarily within Portugal’s Liga NOS.

In the summer of the previous year, he returned to FC Porto, taking on the role of General Director under the presidency of André Villas-Boas. 

Tragically, his life was cut short by a sudden heart attack on Tuesday, a loss that sent shockwaves throughout the football community.

José Mourinho: “He Was Not Just a Captain, But a True Leader”

Ahead of Fenerbahçe’s UEFA Champions League qualifying fixture against Feyenoord scheduled for Wednesday, Mourinho addressed the media with a heavy heart. 

His voice trembled as he spoke about Jorge Costa, underscoring that he was more than just a captain—he was a leader in every sense of the word.

“He is part of my history. It feels like a chapter of my life has now ended,” Mourinho shared solemnly.

He continued, “There is a distinction between wearing the captain’s armband and embodying leadership. Jorge exemplified the latter.”

“He was one of those I call garbage-cleaners’—a player who allowed the coach to focus solely on coaching, without needing to manage the locker room.”

Costa’s presence, according to Mourinho, was foundational in shaping the team dynamic during their victorious years at FC Porto. His leadership extended beyond the pitch, forming a bridge between the squad and the technical staff.

Staying Focused Despite Personal Grief

Despite the emotional weight of Costa’s passing, Mourinho affirmed that he would continue to fulfill his responsibilities as head coach for the crucial match against Feyenoord. 

He remarked that Costa himself would have expected nothing less than professionalism in the face of personal loss.

“If Jorge were still with us, he would have said, ‘Do your press conference, play your match tomorrow, and forget about me,’” Mourinho said, his voice barely steady. 

“So that is what I will try to do—carry out my duties today and tomorrow, and then I will grieve afterward.”

Deco Returns to Portugal to Pay Tribute to a Dear Friend

Deco, currently serving as the Sporting Director of FC Barcelona, also made his way back to Portugal to attend Jorge Costa’s funeral and pay his respects. 

A former teammate of Costa at FC Porto, Deco was part of the same legendary side that won the Champions League in 2004 under Mourinho’s guidance.

The presence of Deco at the memorial served as a powerful symbol of the respect and admiration Costa commanded throughout his career. 

It was a poignant reminder of the brotherhood formed during Porto’s golden era, and the enduring legacy left behind by their late captain.

Jorge Costa: Captain, Leader, and Eternal Symbol of FC Porto

Jorge Costa’s passing marks not only a tremendous loss for FC Porto but also for the broader footballing world. 

He epitomized loyalty, discipline, and leadership—qualities that defined his influence on and off the pitch.

His legacy transcends statistics and accolades; it lives on in the reverence shown by managers, teammates, and fans alike. 

As José Mourinho so eloquently stated, Costa was not merely a figure in the history of a club, but a chapter in the history of a life now gone.

His name will continue to resonate within the hearts of football supporters, especially those who witnessed his unwavering dedication over the past two decades.