Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho addressed the former Captain of Porto, Jorge Costa

Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho are among those who have received a tribute to the captain winner of the Champions League of Porto, Jorge Costa, who died at 53 years after suffering a cardiac arrest on the Portuguese club training field.

Costa, who directed Porto to the Glory of the UEFA Cup in 2003 and a triumph of the Champions League a year later under Mourinho, was in his second season as football director of the Portugal League club. He was taken to the hospital but could not be saved.

The defender won 50 heads for the Portugal selection and accumulated more than 500 appearances in his career, most playing Porto.

Ronaldo paid tribute to his compatriot on social media, publishing an image of coast with the line “ATE Semper Jorge Costa”, which translates as “even” or “always”.

Fenerbahce’s head, Mourinho, who fought tears at a press conference ahead of the third round of the Champions League league on the third round against Feyenoord on Wednesday, said: “I am very sad. It’s a part of my story.

“If I could talk to me now I would say” give the press conference, tomorrow play the game and win the game, forget me. “

“I will try to do my job today and tomorrow, and then I will cry after.”

Costa won 24 trophies in his time in Porto, including eight primerade titles. He was one of the six players to win five consecutive championships in the Portuguese league.

He had a brief spell in England with Charlton Athletic, making 26 appearances after loan during the 2001/2002 season.

“Throughout his life, both outside and outside the pitch, Jorge Costa embodied the values that define FC Porto: dedication, leadership, passion and a spirit of disturbing conquest,” Porto said in a statement. “He left his mark on the generations of fans and became a symbol of portism.”

“Jorge’s legacy costs will always remain alive in the memory of all Porto fans. You will never be forgotten, captain.”

Two other former players from Porto and Portugal, Deco and Pepe, also paid tribute to the player.

Deco called Costa one of the “biggest symbols” in Portuguese football, adding: “It was an honor to share so many titles and joys with you. Your name will be remembered forever. My condolences to the whole family.”

In the meantime, Pepe said: “Your dedication and legacy will always live in the unmatched history of FC Porto victories. Rest in peace, Jorge Costa.”