The football world is in shock following the unfortunate passing of former FC Porto captain Jorge Costa, who sadly died at the age of 53.
His passing, which occurred on Tuesday, August 5, has left a deep void in Portuguese football, one month after the tragic death of Liverpool star Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva. Fans, players, and clubs are grieving the loss of a true icon.
Jorge Costa dies from cardiac arrest
According to Yahoo Sports, Costa died of cardiac arrest. He had reportedly felt unwell earlier in the day.
At the time of his death, he was serving as FC Porto’s director of football. Costa made 50 appearances for the Portugal national team. But it was at FC Porto where he made his biggest mark.
He famously led the team as captain during their 2004 UEFA Champions League triumph. That historic win came under the leadership of José Mourinho.
Costa was more than a leader on the pitch. He was a symbol of resilience and pride. Teammates called him “The Captain.” He inspired through his grit and guided younger players with wisdom and heart.
FC Porto released an emotional statement after his death. They called him an “inescapable figure” in the club’s history.
The club also vowed that his legacy would live on. “He will never be forgotten,” they said.
Costa’s death comes just months after the tragic passing of Diogo Jota, another Portuguese star gone too soon. Jota is among six high-profile footballers to die in 2025.
Jorge Costa’s football legacy
After hanging up his boots in 2006, Costa turned to coaching. He managed several clubs, including Braga, Olhanense, Académica, CFR Cluj, and AEL Limassol. From 2018 to 2020, he also coached Mumbai FC in the Indian Super League.
Across his coaching career, Costa oversaw 454 matches. He earned 112 wins, 153 draws, and suffered 189 defeats. Jorge Costa’s journey was one of passion, leadership, and unwavering loyalty to the game.