Gabriel Costa Announces Retirement from Peruvian Football: Thanks Universitario, Alianza & Cristal

Gabriel Costa, a key figure in Universitario de Deportes’ recent success, is leaving the Peruvian club at the end of his contract, marking the end of an era for the midfielder in Peruvian football. The 35-year-old announced his departure via social media on November 30, 2025, expressing gratitude to Alianza Lima, Sporting Cristal, and Universitario for the opportunities he was given during his time in the country.

Costa arrived at Universitario from rivals Alianza Lima in 2024 and played a significant role in securing back-to-back national titles in 2024 and 2025. However, he was not included in the plans for the 2026 season, leading to his departure. A potential move to Universidad San Martín ultimately fell through, prompting Costa to seek opportunities outside of Peru.

In a heartfelt message posted online, Costa reflected on his time with each of the three clubs. “Today I want to express my deep and sincere gratitude to three giant institutions of Peruvian football: Alianza Lima, Sporting Cristal, and Universitario de Deportes,” he wrote. “Having worn their shirts, defended their colors, and been part of their history is a privilege that very few can say.”

He acknowledged the distinct experiences and challenges he faced with each team, emphasizing the joy of winning championships with all three. “With each of these clubs, I experienced different stages, enormous challenges, and unforgettable moments, crowned with the ultimate joy that football gives: winning championships. These titles were not just sporting achievements, they were the result of daily work, sacrifice, constant demand, and the passion with which football is lived in Peru. Each championship is marked in my career and in my heart.”

Costa also extended his gratitude to the Peruvian national team, for whom he was capped 12 times between 2019 and 2022. “To the Peruvian Football Team, my eternal gratitude. Having the opportunity to represent an entire country and play in the Qualifiers for the Qatar World Cup was one of the greatest honors of my career. Wearing the Blanquirroja, listening to the anthem, and feeling the support of an entire people is something that is never forgotten. That experience shaped me not only as a footballer but also as a person.”

He emphasized the importance of Peru in his career trajectory, stating, “My gratitude extends to Peru, its people, the fans, those who were there in the good times and also in the difficult ones. Peru was a fundamental part of my professional path, a country that opened its doors to me, gave me opportunities, and allowed me to grow, compete at the highest level, and fulfill dreams that every footballer yearns for.”

Costa departs with a strong record of success in Peruvian football, having won two national titles with Universitario, one with Alianza Lima, and one with Sporting Cristal. He expressed contentment with his accomplishments, stating, “I leave with the peace of mind of having given my all, with pride in the journey traveled, and with immense respect for Peruvian football and its people. The memories, the titles, the experiences, and the affection received will remain with me forever.”

During his time with Universitario, Costa made 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring one goal against UTC in 2024 and providing four assists. He was a part of the team that secured the 2024 and 2025 national championships, but ultimately did not fit into the plans of coach Jorge Fossati for the 2026 season.

Costa’s departure marks the third confirmed exit from Universitario ahead of the 2026 season, following Sebastián Britos and Diego Churín. The club is currently undergoing a restructuring process as it prepares to compete in the Copa Libertadores in 2026 and aims for a potential fourth consecutive national championship.

Currently, Costa plays as a midfielder for Universidad San Martín, as of March 23, 2024. He began his professional career with River Plate Montevideo in 2010, and has since played for Rocha (on loan), Bella Vista, Rentistas, Alianza Lima (on loan), Sporting Cristal, Colo-Colo, and Alianza Lima before joining Universitario in 2024.