Cristiano Ronaldo has cemented his legacy as an icon for an entire generation of athletes, leading Portugal to global prominence. In his role as a national symbol, the forward delivered a heartfelt 4-word farewell to a Porto legend and Intercontinental Cup winner.
Portuguese soccer was rocked by the news of Jorge Costa’s passing at the age of 53. A former Portugal international and academy product, Costa carved out a storied career at Porto, winning 32 trophies and playing a key role in the club’s historic UEFA Champions League triumph in 2004, the same year they captured the Intercontinental Cup.
Serving as Porto’s sporting director, Costa reportedly suffered a heart attack at the club’s training complex in Olival. He was rushed to São João Hospital, where he later passed away. In the hours following the news, Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute with a simple but powerful Instagram message.
“Até sempre Jorge Costa,” wrote Ronaldo in an Instagram story, Portuguese for “Farewell forever, Jorge Costa.” Though they never shared the pitch with the national team (Costa retired in 2002 and Ronaldo debuted in 2003) the two did face off in domestic competition when a young Ronaldo played for Sporting CP.
Jose Mourinho pays tribute to Costa
Another figure deeply affected by the news was legendary manager Jose Mourinho. The coach, who led Porto to Champions League glory in 2004, described Costa as a born leader and an essential part of that European triumph.
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Mourinho learned of Costa’s passing during a Fenerbahce press conference and was visibly emotional, struggling to hold back tears. Later, he posted a heartfelt tribute on social media to honor his former captain.
“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,” Mourinho wrote, sharing a photo of the two during a training session at Porto.
