Millwall and Montenegro goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26.
The former Aston Villa youth player was on international duty with the Montenegro national team when the unfortunate event occurred.
Sarkic’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the football community, having played for several English clubs during his career.
While spending time with friends at an apartment in Budva, Sarkic fell ill, and despite efforts to save him, he sadly did not survive. Just over a week prior, he had played for Montenegro against Belgium.
Millwall expressed their deep sorrow in a statement on their website, saying: “Millwall Football Club is completely devastated to announce that Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26. Sarkic, The Lions’ number one goalkeeper, made 33 appearances for the club since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in August 2023. A Montenegro international, Matija proudly represented his country on numerous occasions.”
Tributes from Sarkic’s former clubs have been heartfelt. Birmingham City commented, “Everyone at Birmingham City is shocked and saddened to learn of the news that our former goalkeeper, Matija Sarkic, has passed away at the age of 26. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and all those that knew him.”
Aston Villa’s Academy page shared a touching message, “Difficult to put the news of this morning into words. Former Villa goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has passed away at the age of 26. Rest in peace, Mati. You and your family are in our thoughts. 💜”
Millwall’s official supporters club also mourned his loss, stating, “🖤 RIP Matija Sarkic 🖤 What horrendous news to wake up to this morning that our goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has died at the young age of 26. Devastating news for his friends and family and for all of us associated with Millwall. Once a lion, always a lion 🦁”
