José Mourinho, coach of Fenerbahce, expresses his grief over the loss of Jorge Costa.
In a rare display of raw emotion, José Mourinho, current coach of Fenerbahçe, paused his pre-match press conference to pay tribute to his former captain. Mourinho, whose stoic demeanor is almost as famous as his tactical genius, struggled to contain his grief, articulating a sentiment that resonated with many who knew Costa: “He is a part of my history that is leaving.”
Their bond was forged during FC Porto`s golden era, a period when Mourinho guided the Dragons to unprecedented success, including the UEFA Cup in 2003 and the coveted Champions League in 2004. Central to these triumphs was Jorge Costa, not just as a player, but as a unique force within the dressing room. Mourinho elaborated on this invaluable quality:
“There are captains and there are leaders; it`s not about the armband, it`s about what you represent. Jorge Costa was one of those who cleaned up the mess and let the coach do his work as a coach and not as a dressing room leader. That`s perfection for a coach.”
This statement offers a fascinating glimpse into the mechanics of elite football. Even “The Special One” acknowledges the critical role of a strong, uncompromising leader who handles the internal complexities, allowing the manager to focus solely on strategy and performance. It’s a subtle irony that a coach known for his absolute control thrived by delegating the messy bits to a trusted lieutenant. Costa, in essence, was the silent architect of dressing room stability, enabling Mourinho’s grand designs.
A Legacy Etched in Silverware and Spirit
Jorge Costa`s career with FC Porto spanned 383 official matches between 1992 and 2005. During his tenure, he was more than just a formidable central defender; he was the embodiment of the club`s resilience and fighting spirit. His trophy cabinet is a testament to his immense contribution: one Champions League, one UEFA Cup, one Intercontinental Cup, an astonishing eight national championship titles (including a historic “Penta” – five consecutive titles), five Portuguese Cups, and five Supertaças. A total of 21 major trophies underscore his status as one of FC Porto`s most decorated figures.
Beyond his club achievements, Costa also proudly represented the Portuguese national team, earning 50 international caps. He was also a member of the victorious Portugal U-20 squad that lifted the World Cup in 1991, hinting at his leadership qualities from an early age.
Mourinho`s poignant recollection extended beyond Costa`s professional life, touching on the personal: “I am very sad. Let`s forget the footballer and focus on Jorge Costa, on his children whom I knew… I`m here because if he could talk to me now, he would tell me to play tomorrow and win. That was Jorge. I have a job to do, I can cry tomorrow.” This reveals a profound respect for Costa`s character—a man whose dedication transcended even the finality of death. It is a stark reminder that even in profound grief, the professional duty must endure, a mindset that Costa himself exemplified.
The passing of Jorge Costa leaves a significant void in Portuguese football. He was a player of immense talent, a captain of unwavering resolve, and a leader whose impact on those around him, including one of the world`s most successful coaches, was truly indelible. His legacy will undoubtedly live on, not just in the annals of FC Porto`s history, but in the memory of all who witnessed “The Beast” in action, and the profound respect he commanded off the pitch.
