Rui Manuel César Costa OIH is a retired Portuguese professional soccer player. Considered to be one of the best midfielders in world football and one of the best Portuguese players in recent history, Costa has generally played in an attacking midfield position and is exceptional. Known for his superb technique, his ability to dribble and his eye to see the midfield goal. In 2004, he was named by Pelé in FIFA 100 as one of the 125 greatest footballers alive. With the nicknames "The Maestro" and "Il Musagete", Costa has spent most of his career with Benfica in Portugal, Fiorentina and A.C. Milan in Italy. During his 17-year top-notch career, he won a number of trophies, including a Primeira Liga title, a Taça de Portugal title, a Serie A championship, three Coppa Italia titles, one Champions. UEFA League and a UEFA Super Cup. As a Portuguese international, he has made 94 caps and scored 26 goals for A Seleção and has represented the country in three European UEFA Championships and one FIFA World Cup.
From 1994 to 2001, he played for Fiorentina and was a member of the Portuguese national team from 1993 to 2004.
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