Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26.
Local reports suggest that the Montenegro international’s death was sudden, following a collapse at his home in Budva, Montenegro.
Sarkic joined the Championship club from Wolves in August 2023 and made 33 appearances last season. He last played for his country in a 2-0 friendly defeat against Belgium on June 5, where he was named man of the match for his performance.
The Montenegro Football Association (FSCG) confirmed Sarkic’s sudden passing on Saturday morning. They also expressed deep sorrow and described him as a “beloved member” of the national squad. The “eternally smiling guy’s” death “has caused great pain to the Sarkic family.”
Heartbreaking news that Millwall and Montenegro goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away, aged 26.
Thoughts with family… rest in peace, Matija. pic.twitter.com/uJm5mdV18E
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 15, 2024
Millwall expressed their devastation in a statement, saying, “Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time.”
Born in Grimsby, Sarkic began his football career with Belgian side Anderlecht’s youth team before joining Aston Villa. He had loan spells with Wigan, Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville, and Livingston before a permanent move to Wolves in 2020.
At Wolves, Sarkic was loaned out to Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City, where he made 23 appearances in the 2021-22 season. He also played for Stoke City, before moving to Millwall
Tributes pour in for late Matija Sarkic
Aston Villa paid tribute to Matija Sarkic on social media, stating, “Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened. He joined our academy in 2015 and spent five years with the club, during which time he made his full international debut for Montenegro, before departing in the summer of 2020. The thoughts and condolences of all at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
The Football Association, the Professional Footballers’ Association, and the English Football League also offered their condolences to Sarkic’s family and friends.
Sarkic’s sudden death has left a significant void in the football community, and he will be remembered for his talent.
The post Matija Sarkic: 26-year-old goalkeeper dies after stellar performance against Belgium first appeared on 3News.
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