Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic has tragically passed away at the age of 26 after falling ill. The Grimsby-born Montenegro international, who had played for several British clubs including Aston Villa, Wolves, Birmingham City, and Stoke City, became ill at an apartment in Budva following international duty. Despite friends calling for an ambulance immediately, Sarkic died around 6:30 am local time on Saturday.
Sarkic had recently showcased his talent by starting in Montenegro’s 2-0 friendly defeat to Belgium, where he was named man of the match after making nine impressive saves. His career began in the Anderlecht academy before joining Aston Villa, where he had loan spells at Wigan Athletic, Stratford Town, Havant & Waterlooville, and Livingston. Sarkic moved to Wolves in 2020 but didn’t make a first-team appearance. He then had loan spells at Shrewsbury Town, Birmingham City, and Stoke City before Millwall signed him permanently last summer.
Millwall confirmed Sarkic’s passing in a heartfelt statement: “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. Everyone at the club sends their love and condolences to Matija’s family and friends at this immensely sad time. The club will make no further comment at this time and asks that the privacy of Matija’s family is respected.”
Tributes have poured in from fans and clubs alike. Millwall Supporters’ Club posted: “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.” Fans from Birmingham City, Stoke City, and beyond have also shared their condolences, with many expressing their shock and sadness at the untimely loss of such a talented and humble individual.
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