The midfielder Francisco José Rodrigues da Costa, known professionally as Costinha, anchored the Porto squad that secured the 2004 UEFA Champions League title. Throughout a career spanning Portugal, France, Russia, Spain, and Italy, he became a specialist in tactical positioning and defensive workrate, eventually transitioning into a managerial role across multiple domestic clubs.
Early Career and Monaco
Born in Lisbon in 1974 to an Angolan father, Costinha began his professional journey in the Portuguese third division with Clube Oriental de Lisboa, A.D. Machico, and C.D. Nacional. In 1997, he secured a move to AS Monaco. After an initial adjustment period, he solidified his position in the first team, contributing to the side's 1999–2000 Ligue 1 championship victory.
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In May 2001, he joined FC Porto, where he became an instrumental midfield component. His tenure included two consecutive Primeira Liga titles and a notable performance in the 2004 Champions League, where he scored against Manchester United in the round of 16. The team subsequently defeated his former club, Monaco, in the final to claim the trophy.
International Appearances
Costinha earned 53 caps for Portugal, debuting in October 1998 during a qualifier against Slovakia. He represented his country in three major tournaments: UEFA Euro 2000, Euro 2004, and the 2006 FIFA World Cup. His international career included two goals and participation in the 2006 'Battle of Nuremberg' match, where he received a red card.
Management and Administration
Following his retirement from playing in 2010, Costinha pursued coaching and administrative positions. He served as director of football at Sporting CP and later at Servette FC. His managerial career featured stints at Beira-Mar, Paços Ferreira, Académica, and Nacional. He achieved a league title with Nacional in the 2017–18 season, earning promotion back to the top tier.
Fast facts
- Full name: Francisco José Rodrigues da Costa
- Born: 1 December 1974, Lisbon
- Primary Position: Defensive Midfielder
- International caps: 53
- Officer of the Order of Prince Henry: Awarded
- Champions League Title: 2004
Questions readers ask
Which major trophy did Costinha win with Porto in 2004?
He was a key member of the team that won the UEFA Champions League title.
How many clubs did he manage after his retirement?
He held managerial positions at four clubs: Beira-Mar, Paços Ferreira, Académica, and Nacional.
